Jon Jones is finally speaking honestly about one of the most talked-about missed fights in recent UFC history—his long-promised clash with Tom Aspinall. For the first time, Jones openly acknowledged that he played a role in why the matchup fell apart, saying he regrets how the entire situation unfolded and wants to repair his relationship with UFC President Dana White.

Jones explained that he and the UFC briefly had a verbal understanding for the Aspinall fight, but things behind the scenes didn’t go the way they should have. Whether it was timing, communication, or Jones’ own hesitation, the agreement never turned into a signed bout, leaving the heavyweight division in limbo.

“We had a verbal agreement, and it didn’t work out the way it should have. I’ll take the blame—I was wrong.”

That level of admission is rare for Jones, who has often been at odds with the UFC over negotiations. This time, however, he sounded more reflective than combative, making it clear he wants to move forward rather than continue the friction of the past few years.

Jones went on to say that despite disagreements, he hasn’t forgotten everything Dana White has done to elevate his career.

“Dana changed my life. He changed my kids’ lives. I’ll always be grateful for that.”

The failed Aspinall fight remains a sore point for fans. It was supposed to finally determine the true heavyweight king—Aspinall’s explosive rise versus Jones’ championship pedigree. Instead, the fight evaporated in negotiations, leaving both men on separate paths. Aspinall went on to capture and defend the heavyweight belt, while Jones continued navigating injuries and uncertainty.

Jones admitted that watching the division move on without him only deepened his regret. He still believes there is unfinished business, but he knows that repairing trust with White is the first step before any big fight is even possible.

Meanwhile, White has made it clear in recent months that dealing with Jones has become increasingly difficult. A broken agreement—even a verbal one—is something the UFC rarely overlooks. Jones understands that, and for the first time in years, he seems intent on rebuilding that bridge.

If the two sides can reconcile, the door could reopen for Jones to return in a major matchup—possibly even at a landmark event the UFC is planning for 2026. But Jones also acknowledged that at this point, nothing happens unless he shows he’s willing to meet the UFC halfway.

For now, the former champion is focusing less on calling people out and more on repairing damaged relationships. The heavyweight division has shifted dramatically, but Jones insists he still has a place in it—once the conversations behind the scenes are fixed.

Jones wants redemption. He wants clarity. And most importantly, he wants another chance to prove he’s still the man at heavyweight. Only time will tell if the UFC gives him that opportunity.