John Jones’ rule as UFC heavyweight champion sparked debate within the MMA community regarding divisional status related to interim champion Tom Astinol. Jones, who last defended his title at UFC 309, has faced criticism over his period of inactivity throughout his career.
John Jones must defend the title or be stripped away
Legendary boxing trainer Teddy Atlas said, “John Jones was spotted inert in his career. There’s no doubt about that. And now you can say that you’re holding the title hostage, yeah, I’m where you go.”
Teddy Atlas emphasized that being a champion has more to do with things than mere combat ability. He continued his interview with Slingo about being a champion. “The words evoke more than the ability to fight. It evokes how you carry yourself, what you believe, and I think he is the real champion.
However, he also pointed out the responsibility that comes with retaining the title, saying, “You have to give someone else the opportunity to get the opportunity they have within a certain period of time.”
Teddy Atlas demands action: “Enforce the rules” on John Jones’ heavyweight governance
The UFC handles title defenses and enforces rules makes the situation even more complicated. Atlas said, “What are the rules and are they enforced? And if they are not enforced… you need some of the enforcement of those rules. If there is no enforcement of these rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules, if there is no rules?”
Tom Aspinoll, who holds the interim heavyweight belt, has been speaking out about his desire to face Jones. UFC CEO Dana White has shown that if Jones continues his career, he will need to defend his title against Aspinel. Atlas praises Aspinel and calls him “next to take on true heavyweight, natural boxer, class acts and perhaps goats.”
The ongoing uncertainty with John Jones calls for a clearer enforcement of the title defense obligation, as clarified by Atlas and echoed by fans and fighters.
