Why Does Jon Jones Want to Face Pereira Instead of Aspinall?

UFC commentator Jon Anik recently revealed that the UFC's top brass, including Dana White, would prefer to see heavyweight champ Jon Jones face interim champ Tom Aspinall. However, Jones has his eyes set on a different opponent: Alex Pereira. Despite the UFC's preference, Anik believes that Jones's status as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time might force the promotion to give in to his demands. Anik also thinks that Jones is being smart by avoiding Aspinall, as a loss could tarnish his legacy. Anik shared his thoughts in a recent interview, suggesting that while the UFC might not be thrilled about the idea of Jones facing Pereira, they may have no choice but to go along with it. "For Dana White and Hunter Campbell, they'd rather see Jones vs. Aspinall, " Anik said. "But Jones has earned the right to call some shots, and if he wants Pereira, I imagine the UFC will listen. " The situation is made more complex by the fact that Dana White has publicly stated that he believes the winner of Jones's upcoming fight with Stipe Miocic should face Aspinall. However, Anik's comments suggest that there might be more to the story. UFC commentator and former fighter Daniel Cormier agrees with Anik's assessment, believing that Jones should avoid a fight with Aspinall to protect his legacy. "If I were Jones's manager, I wouldn't tell him to risk his '0' and legacy for this fight, " Anik said. "It's not worth it. " The question now is whether the UFC will ultimately go along with Jones's wishes or try to push for a fight with Aspinall. Fans may have to wait and see how this story plays out.