Francis Ngannou’s coach offers verdict on chances of Jon Jones-Tom Aspinall UFC fight

It’s mid-June, and there still isn’t any indication as to whether Jon Jones will actually fight Tom Aspinall to unify the UFC heavyweight titles.

One coach whose fighter has been linked to both, however, offered his perspective; none other than Xtreme Couture coach Eric Nicksick. Nicksick, the head trainer for former UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou, says the fight is destined to happen - if it were up to him.

“I’m a fan of Tom, I want to see Tom get his shot,” Nicksick told MMAFighting. “He’s earned it, he’s deserved it, but I think the heavyweight division is in a tough place right now. It really is.”

Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight fighter, watches as Marcin Tybura fights against Mick Parkin. — Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight fighter, watches as Marcin Tybura (red gloves) fights against Mick Parkin (blue gloves) during UFC Fight Night at O2 Arena. | Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images

Where Does Francis Ngannou Fit Into UFC's Plans?

That said, Nicksick agrees Ngannou remains the best heavyweight outside the UFC and would love to see “The Predator” do what’s best for his career moving forward.

“I don’t know Francis’ contract deal with the PFL," Nicksick said. "I don’t know any of that stuff.”

Ngannou walked away from the UFC as the promotion's heavyweight champio — Jan 22, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Francis Ngannou leaves the octagon after the win against Ciryl Gane during UFC 270 at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Either way, Nicksick says Ngannou will make his decision when he feels ready to do so.

“Francis is a businessman, that’s all I know.”

Ngannou was seen at the UFC Atlanta ceremonial weigh-ins with Kamaru Usman this past Friday, which led to possible speculation that he could return to his promotional roots.

Francis Ngannou joined Kamaru Usman on stage at #UFCAtlanta ceremonial weigh-ins! 😮 👀 pic.twitter.com/N69mWlldCc
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) June 13, 2025

Even though it is mostly viewed as a dream fight, Nicksick said he still views Jones-Ngannou as a fight that should happen.

Is Jones-Ngannou Worth It?

“I think [Jon] and Francis [fighting each other] because of the nostalgia of two heavyweights clashing together. One being the greatest of all time, the other one clamoring to be in the position of one of the greatest heavyweights to ever do it.

Jones awaits his next mov — Feb 15, 2020; Rio Rancho, New Mexico, USA; UFC fighter Jon Jones attends the light heavyweight bout between Jan Blachowicz (blue) and Corey Anderson (red) during UFC Fight Night at Santa Ana Star Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

But those appear to be rumblings, and until something is deemed official, Ngannou’s immediate future is uncertain.

Nonetheless, the UFC heavyweight division still awaits a path forward.

Only time will tell.

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