Nov 4, 2023; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Derrick Lewis (blue gloves) reacts after losing to Jailton Almeida (not pictured) during UFC Fight Night at Ibirapuera Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason da Silva-Imagn Images Jason da Silva-Imagn Images

Derrick Lewis nearly fought Jon Jones, could see himself fighting for UFC title again

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Zain Bando | Last updated Jul 10, 2025 5:28 PM ET

Derrick Lewis has had a rollercoaster of a UFC career over the last decade or so. But at one point, he nearly had the chance to fight the arguable UFC GOAT in Jon Jones.

Lewis had just beaten Chris Daukas in a bounce back win following a loss in his interim title fight to Ciryl Gane. There was still much uncertainty regarding how the heavyweight division’s future would look, as the UFC was in the midst of negotiations with Francis Ngannou when he was still champion.

Lewis’ win over Daukas was followed by a devastating loss to Tai Tuivasa. This led to Gane fighting Jones, and although Jones beat Gane, Lewis still remains in the mix over two years later.

Derrick Lewis Calls Out Tom Aspinall

Lewis draws Tallison Teixeira this Saturday in the UFC Nashville main event. With a win, he told MMAJunkie Tuesday he’d love to fight UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall before he hangs it up.

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

“That'd be good to fight him before everything is said and done with,” Lewis said of Aspinall. “I have a couple fights left on my contract, and I would love to finish out my contract. That would be great if I can. It'd be good.”

Lewis says his previous title fight opportunities have been non-traditional, but he hopes the next one is rightfully-earned.

“I ended up fighting DC's big a** on short notice, then they tried to give me an interim title fight with Gane,” Lewis said. “I haven't really fought for the title with a proper buildup for a title fight, and that time to train and everything like that mentally.”

He’ll have a chance to prove he won’t need any last-minute favors if he continues to win, remaining a key contender in the division.

Lewis is making his return to the Octagon for the first time in 14 months, whereas this is only Teixeira's second UFC fight.