Alexander Gustafsson believes Tom Aspinall will defeat Jon Jones should the UFC fighters eventually clash in a heavyweight showdown.
Aspinall is the interim UFC heavyweight champion and Jones is the UFC heavyweight champion, meaning a bout between the two could happen soon after the latter returns from the muscle injury he suffered late last year. Aspinall would also have to successfully defend his title against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 later this month, but former light heavyweight contender Gustafsson doesn't believe that will be a problem for the 31-year-old champion.
Speaking to Crypto Sports Betting, Gustafsson labelled Aspinall the best fighter in the heavyweight division right now, and stated that even Jones wouldn't be able to handle the undefeated Brit.
Having faced Jones twice for the UFC light heavyweight title, Gustafsson is in a unique position to opine on Jones' status.
‘‘Aspinall is on fire right now and he is a very, very good heavyweight," Gustafsson said. "I don't see anyone beating Aspinall right now.
"I understand why Tom wants to fight Jon, it’s because Jon is the GOAT, he is the biggest UFC star right now. If Tom was to beat Jon it would be bigger than winning any UFC belt.
"The biggest achievement in the UFC right now is to beat Jon Jones. I understand why Aspinall is chasing the fight. I think he is ready for Jon. He's on fire right now. If he fights Jon Jones it should be now."
Gustafsson reiterated his belief that Aspinall would best Jones, stating: “Yes, I think Tom will be too much for Jon. He has all the weapons to beat Jon.
"Jon hasn't been that active, but he's still the GOAT. You can never count this guy out, he's so freaking good at what he does.
"He's handled every opponent and everybody knows how good he is, but Aspinall right now, I see him as very dangerous for Jon right now. He's dangerous on his feet, he's fast, he has great footwork and he's a smart fighter.
"He has the tools to do good against Jon and even beat him. If they will fight, now is the time for Aspinall. He could go down as one of the best heavyweights ever.’’
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