Alex Pereira‘s Pursuit of Jon Jones Draws ‘Duck’ Accusations, spotlight Turns to Tom Aspinall
Heavyweight contender Alex Pereira’s stated desire to challenge former champion Jon Jones has ignited controversy, with some observers accusing him of avoiding a fight with rising star Tom Aspinall. Teh accusations surfaced following Pereira’s public callout of Jones, prompting a wave of social media commentary alleging a deliberate strategy to bypass a more dangerous matchup.
This situation echoes familiar territory within the UFC,where fighters are often scrutinized for their choice of opponents. A Pereira-Jones bout would represent a significant possibility for both fighters - Jones’ return to the Octagon after a lengthy absence and pereira’s attempt to claim another title in a second weight class. However, many believe Aspinall presents a more immediate and problematic challenge for Pereira, perhaps explaining the focus on jones.
Social media erupted with criticism, with one user on X (formerly Twitter) stating, “He knows Tom beats him,” and another labeling it a “Clear duck.” Another post asserted, “He knows Aspinall is too big and would absolutely dog-walk him. Going for the old retired vet, smart move.”
The dynamic highlights the complex calculations fighters make when navigating the competitive landscape of the UFC. Aspinall, currently ranked among the top heavyweights, has consistently demonstrated his power and skill, establishing himself as a legitimate threat to the division’s elite. While Pereira is a formidable striker with a history of knockout victories, a clash with Aspinall would test his grappling and overall MMA game against a well-rounded opponent.
As of October 5, 2025, the UFC has not officially announced pereira’s next opponent. The organization will likely weigh the potential for both matchups – Pereira vs. Jones and Pereira vs. Aspinall – considering fan interest, fighter rankings, and the overall trajectory of the heavyweight division. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future title contention picture.
