The UFC is widely considered the gold standard of MMA, with elite fighters seeking out the organisation to showcase their talents to the world. The baddest man in all of mixed martial arts has traditionally been the reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion. From Frank Mir to Cain Velasquez to Stipe Miocic, the division has long served as the backbone of the UFC since the promotion’s inception.
However, times have changed. Thanks to an inactive champion, the division has stalled to a near-complete stop. So, what can the UFC do to fix this problem? Here are three matchups that could help solve the conundrum.
Jon Jones (C) vs Tom Aspinall (IC)
Let’s start with the obvious: the matchup every MMA fan is dying to see—Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall. To be perfectly honest, it’s verging on ridiculous that this fight hasn’t happened yet, or even been officially booked. Aspinall claimed the interim title back in November 2023, making his reign the longest interim title stint in UFC history—an achievement no fighter wants. Dana White has repeatedly claimed that the matchup is close to being finalised, month after month, assuring fans not to worry and promising that an announcement is imminent. Yet, we’re still waiting. Fans are desperate to see how the ageing Jones can deal with the youth and athleticism of Aspinall. In his not-so-recent win over Stipe Miocic, Jones seemed to have lost some of the previous quickness we had grown so used to seeing. It only adds to the potential excitement surrounding this fight, with Aspinall’s freakish speed and power providing an immense problem for Jones to solve.
This fight is necessary for the division to move forward, and it’s equally crucial for Jon Jones’ legacy. Often regarded as the GOAT of the sport, Jones’ perceived reluctance to fight Aspinall has led many to question his standing. This fight simply has to happen. If it doesn’t, it will be a major failure on the UFC’s part.
#3 Alexander Volkov vs #6 Jailton Almeida
Now, let’s look at a potential number-one contender’s fight. At first glance, this matchup may raise eyebrows, but in my opinion, these two are the most deserving.
In his last bout, Alexander Volkov was arguably robbed of a deserved victory over Ciryl Gane due to questionable judging. Dana White even apologised to the Russian, saying, “We will try to make it right by you.” A number-one contender’s fight would do exactly that—Almeida is the perfect opponent. Since entering the UFC in 2021, Jailton Almeida has compiled an 8–1 record. Despite this impressive run, he’s received widespread criticism on social media for his so-called “boring” style—criticism that feels largely unjustified. Yes, his win over Derrick Lewis wasn’t flashy or particularly exciting, but 7 of his 8 UFC wins have come before the final horn. It’s time the Brazilian got a real opportunity to show fans what he’s truly made of.
#2 Ciryl Gane vs #4 Sergei Pavlovich
Ciryl Gane and Sergei Pavlovich both find themselves at a difficult crossroads. Despite each winning their last fight, neither gained much momentum, with their performances drawing heavy criticism. Gane, as mentioned earlier, was considered the loser by many despite the official result. Pavlovich, meanwhile, earned a lacklustre win over Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Both men need a statement finish to reinsert themselves into the title picture, and this fight provides that opportunity. Striking will be the name of the game here, which plays to both fighters’ strengths. It’s a bout that promises a knockout—and one that fans won’t want to look away from, even for a second.
These three matchups would breathe new life into a stagnating heavyweight division that’s desperate for momentum. However, for any of this to matter, the UFC must first resolve the title situation. Yes, we all want to see Jones vs Aspinall – but if Jon Jones isn’t interested, the UFC must make the tough call to strip him and promote Tom Aspinall to undisputed champion.
Fans have waited long enough. It’s time for the talking to stop—action must be taken for this division to return to its former glory.
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