Russian heavyweight Alexander Volkov is calling out Jon Jones for halting progress in the division—and says the UFC is enabling it.
UFC contender Alexander Volkov has voiced his frustration over the current state of the heavyweight division. His comments come amid ongoing delays surrounding a potential title unification bout between reigning champion Jon Jones and interim titleholder Tom Aspinall.
Title delays and a stagnant division
Since defeating Ciryl Gane in March 2023 to win the vacant heavyweight title, Jon Jones has defended the belt just once—against Stipe Miocic in November 2024. With no confirmed fight scheduled since then, top contenders like Volkov and Aspinall remain stuck in limbo.
“As a fighter, I have a negative view of the Jones-Aspinall delay,” said Volkov in a recent interview. “It reduces my own chances of fighting for the title, and time is not on my side. In other divisions, there’s a clear chain of fights. But here, things are blocked.”
UFC’s role under scrutiny
Volkov didn’t just aim his criticism at Jon Jones. He also questioned the UFC’s decision-making and favoritism toward the current champion.
“It’s not just about Jones himself,” Volkov added. “The UFC is allowing him to behave this way. They’re being overly loyal, and as a result, the whole division is waiting. Fighters who have earned their shot are stuck watching.”
What happens if Jon Jones doesn’t return?
There’s growing speculation that Jones might retire without defending the title again. If that happens, Volkov could find himself in line for a showdown with Tom Aspinall to crown an undisputed champion.
But until the UFC makes an official move, uncertainty reigns. Aspinall has remained active, while Volkov, currently ranked third in the division, has continued winning impressively—yet neither has clarity about the future.
Frustration mounting among top contenders
Volkov’s comments reflect a broader sentiment in the UFC’s heavyweight division. Fighters want consistent matchmaking and active champions. When top contenders are forced to wait indefinitely, it slows the division and impacts fighter momentum, rankings, and earning potential.
Whether Jon Jones returns to action or not, the UFC will soon need to make a decision—for the health of the division and the careers of deserving contenders like Alexander Volkov.
