MMA icon Georges St-Pierre suggests that interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall should cease dwelling on the uncertainty surrounding a potential fight with Jon Jones.
For over a year, Aspinall has publicly expressed his desire to face Jones to unify the UFC heavyweight belts. This pursuit has been difficult. Initially, Aspinall was bypassed in favor of a highly anticipated fight between Jones and former champion Stipe Miocic. Now, with negotiations seemingly stalled for the Jones vs. Miocic bout, rumors suggest Aspinall might even have to defend his interim title again this summer. This protracted situation is understandably frustrating for Aspinall and his team, a feeling St-Pierre acknowledges while advising against focusing on it.
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, St-Pierre offered his perspective. “I think Tom, he needs to focus on the next task,” GSP stated. He drew on his own past experience, recalling how focusing solely on avenging his loss to Matt Serra before facing other opponents proved to be a mistake. “If he is only focusing on Jon Jones, and if Jon Jones does not come back right away, he’s not focusing on the right thing. He needs to focus on what is next, the next path. Because the rest, it’s a distraction.”
St-Pierre emphasized that outcomes beyond Aspinall`s control shouldn`t be his focus. “Things that need to be done will be done,” he remarked. While he, as a fan, would eagerly watch a fight between Aspinall and Jones given Jones`s legendary status, he understands Jones`s position involves complex negotiations regarding compensation. “Tom should not focus on that because it’s outside of his control, and he’s wasting a lot of energy focusing on that.”
Recognizing Aspinall`s predicament, especially now being the longest-reigning interim champion in UFC history while waiting for clarity, St-Pierre stressed the importance of mental discipline. It`s challenging, but Aspinall must “sort of self-hypnotize himself to focus on the next thing,” GSP advised. By concentrating on and succeeding in immediate challenges, Aspinall can progressively build his own significant legacy. St-Pierre believes Aspinall possesses the necessary attributes to achieve greatness.
Understanding both sides of the scenario, St-Pierre recognizes the fan excitement for the potential matchup, with many believing Aspinall has the skills to pose a unique threat to Jones. He sympathizes with Jones`s perspective on contract negotiations, describing the process as a “chess game.” Ultimately, his core advice for Aspinall remains consistent: “Tom needs to focus on what’s next, and the rest, sort of clear your mind and only focus on that thing.”
Marcus Blakely