A prominent voice in mixed martial arts believes the heavyweight division needs clarity, suggesting action be taken regarding its top championship. Former fighter turned analyst Chael Sonnen stated heavyweight champion Jon Jones should be stripped of his title belt.
The heavyweight class currently operates with two recognized champions. Jon Jones holds the undisputed championship, while Tom Aspinall is the interim titleholder. The presence of both titles has created an unusual scenario within the UFC.
Sonnen addressed the situation on his online platform, questioning the purpose of championship belts if not for active defense. He argued that belts signify active champions, not accolades for past achievements, hall of fame induction, or popularity.
"What are bets for? Why do we have them? To recognize champions. Good job if you said that. Equal answer, to be defended," Sonnen said. "We do not hand out belts in retirement, just for example."
Jon Jones captured the heavyweight championship by defeating Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in March 2023. His first scheduled defense was against former champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 eight months later, but Jones withdrew due to injury.
The promotion created an interim title following Jones's injury. Tom Aspinall secured this belt by defeating Sergei Pavlovich quickly.
According to reports, Jones and Miocic eventually met at UFC 309 in November, with Jones reportedly retaining his title. Aspinall defended his interim championship five months prior at UFC 304.
The coexistence of an undisputed champion and an interim champion is unusual, prompting discussion about the division's structure and the titles' standing.
Sonnen emphasized that it is not possible to have an interim champion alongside an undisputed champion simultaneously. He asserted that the moment the undisputed champion competes, the interim title should cease to exist.
Given the circumstances, Sonnen questioned which title should be removed, concluding the focus should be on the belt that is not being defended. He maintains the company should have already addressed the issue of having two champions.
