A long-awaited super fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira could become reality in 2026. Both fighters have shown interest, and MMA analyst Chael Sonnen believes the showdown is only a matter of time. Sonnen shared his prediction during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, stirring excitement among fans and fighters alike.
Sonnen sees a massive fight on the horizon
Sonnen spoke about the possible heavyweight matchup and its effect on the light heavyweight division, where Pereira currently reigns. “Pereira and Jones’ social media talk tells us the fight is coming in 2026,” Sonnen said. “But Jon Jones is the only one who doesn’t seem eager. He took three years off, drinking protein shakes and waiting through suspension.”
Sonnen didn’t hold back on Jones’ indecision. “He came back but can’t make up his mind,” he continued. “If Jon thinks Pereira will sit still at 38, he’s mistaken. Jon could challenge Pereira in February or March and move on after that.”
Sonnen believes the situation needs resolution soon. “Pereira is signaling a jump to heavyweight, and that matters. If he stays there, the light heavyweight belt must be vacated so others can compete,” he said.
Jones takes aim at Aspinall after UFC 321
Jon Jones found a way to mock current heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall following UFC 321. Aspinall’s title defense against Ciryl Gane ended in a no contest after an accidental eye poke, frustrating fans worldwide. The Jones-Aspinall unification talk had dominated headlines before Jones retired and vacated his title, which made Aspinall the undisputed champion.
After the controversial ending in Abu Dhabi, Jones took to social media with his trademark sarcasm. He changed his profile picture from a duck to one wearing an eye patch, clearly referencing Aspinall’s eye injury. He also reposted a fan meme comparing how quickly he finished Gane to how long the Aspinall-Gane bout lasted. Over the image, Jones wrote, “Never forget who the GOAT is.”
The reminder of Jones’ dominance
Jones’ victory over Ciryl Gane still echoes in the fight world. He defeated Gane in just over two minutes to capture the vacant heavyweight title in 2023. The Aspinall-Gane fight, by contrast, ended after four and a half minutes due to the accidental poke. Jones’ online taunt reminded everyone that, in his eyes, he remains the greatest fighter to ever step inside the Octagon.
