Frustration among MMA fans reached a boiling point last week, as thousands united to sign an online petition calling for UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones to be stripped of his title. While this isn’t the first time fans have expressed discontent, the outrage has intensified—especially now that ‘Bones’ has become the second-longest reigning heavyweight champion in UFC history, trailing only Cain Velasquez. What triggered this wave of backlash? Jones has held the title for over 800 days but has defended it just once.

On the other hand, the delay of a unification bout has left interim champion Tom Aspinall waiting for over 500 days, despite being promised one. Dana White has continued to insist that the fight is “100%” happening and urged fans to “just relax,” but with summer on the horizon and no official update in sight, patience is wearing thin. Instead of training or preparing for the long-awaited clash, Jon Jones was recently spotted in Thailand, a move that only further agitated fans already tired of the delays and perceived disregard for the division.

Over 60,000 people have signed the petition to strip the American of his title. Jon Jones, however, seemed unfazed by the growing criticism and took to social media to troll the petition. But what started as a fan-driven protest has now drawn support from one of MMA’s most respected voices—veteran coach Ray Longo, who has trained world champions like Matt Serra, Chris Weidman, Aljamain Sterling, and Merab Dvalishvili.

Appearing on the DraftKings podcast with Jon Anik and Kenny Florian, Longo didn’t mince words:

“That’s why I say I think he’s the type of guy, ‘I’m gonna do what I want to do, and I don’t give a f*ck what you think.’ I think that’s who he is and that’s what he’s doing right now. He’s holding the power, and that’s how he decides to use it… The UFC can’t do anything. They should strip him of the title. I don’t think it’s fair to Tom Aspinall. This poor guy’s been waiting – he’ll be waiting for 15 years before he sees the title. Is that right?”

At this moment, Tom Aspinall is one of the most sympathized fighters in the sport. From fellow athletes to MMA analysts, many share his frustration. He’s openly expressed irritation with Jon Jones and the UFC itself. But, ultimately, the promotion is in charge—Dana White and his team hold the final say. Despite all the delays and setbacks, the Brit seems to be handling things well. Though the wait for a unification fight has been tough, he’s started to see it as a blessing in disguise. Here’s why.

Why did Tom Aspinall call the long wait for Jon Jones a blessing?

“Everything happens for a reason,” or so the saying goes. Whether you believe it’s divine will or simply the universe playing its part, sometimes setbacks serve a bigger purpose—one we can’t always recognize in the moment. Right now, Tom Aspinall finds himself in exactly that kind of situation. Back in 2023, the Englishman was on the brink of heavyweight greatness.

After capturing the interim UFC title, he successfully defended it at UFC 304 against Curtis Blaydes. All that remained was a long-awaited unification clash with the reigning champion, Jon Jones. But months have passed with little more than vague assurances from Dana White and company. No date. No contract. Just radio silence. For a fighter in his prime, the extended wait has been frustrating—not just for Tom Aspinall, but for fans and his team alike.

Yet, despite the setbacks, the British powerhouse now believes the delay may have been a blessing in disguise. In a recent social media clip, the interim champ appeared alongside his father, Andy Aspinall, and opened up about a lingering health issue that’s quietly been affecting him. While reflecting on his condition and the unexpected pause in his career, Tom shared,

“As professional athletes, we don’t like to talk about stuff that’s holding us back, like injuries, illnesses, etc. But this year, I’ve actually been ill more times than I ever have in my life. I got a virus before Christmas, and I’ve had it on and off since. Even though I’m not active, looking back, it’s probably a good thing I haven’t been, because I haven’t been functioning at 100% for a while.”

What’s your take on Ray Longo’s remarks? Do you think Dana White and company should consider stripping Jon Jones of the heavyweight title if his reluctance to return continues? Drop your thoughts below.