Tom aspinall still believes in duel against Jon Jones. (Photo: Instagram/UFC)
While eagerly awaiting the opportunity to share the octagon with Jon Jones, Tom aspinall He never stops sharing his aspirations for the future. Not only for his own career, but also for MMA as a whole. At just 31 years old, the Englishman hopes to be one of the representatives of the new generation that will take the sport to a new level in front of the media and fans around the world.
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In an interview with the British newspaper 'The Independent' this Thursday (13), the heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg.), among several other subjects, explained how he sees the future of the sport.
“I’m not in control of how everyone sees MMA. I just want it to be respected as a popular sport in this country (England) – like football, like boxing. I want it to be relatable to people,” said the fighter.
The UFC has a long history with England. The first event organized by the company in England took place in July 2002, the year after the Fertitta brothers bought the company and Dana White took over as president. Since then, almost 30 events have been held in the country.
Tom aspinall He is interim UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Aspinall, meanwhile, has had the opportunity to fight on British soil on four occasions since his UFC debut five years ago. In fact, his last appearance was in Manchester, in the co-main event of UFC 304, when he knocked out Curtis blaydes in just one minute to defend the interim belt of the organization's heaviest category.
Tom aspinall took Curtis blaydes out in quick fashion! pic.twitter.com/bxVtEyA3hU
— Cԋσρρα (@StunnaXXL) July 28, 2024
While he doesn't return to the octagon, Aspinall will be present during the next UFC London, on the 22nd of this month. The event will be headlined by Leon edwards, in combat against Sean brady. For the champion, it will be an opportunity to interact with fans, even without fighting.
“It’s a moment for me to connect with the fans, to give them a personal experience. Not many UFC fighters get to do that. To do it live, not on a screen, and to spend time together, shake hands, take a picture… it’s important to me. I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
Aspinall spoke about Jon Jones
Tom aspinall celebrates victory at UFC 304 (Photo: Instagram/UFC)
The fighter also did not fail to mention Jon Jones, the linear champion of the category. Apparently, the two will soon face off in a title unification fight. Regarding the fight, Aspinall stated that the need to make the right decisions in the heat of the moment is the main aspect to come out with the victory.
“My skill set is good, but so is everyone else’s. Being in the gym since I was 10 doesn’t hurt [my decision-making], and my dad also talks a lot about training your eyes: making your reactions quicker. I don’t think many people do that, to be honest. I think my decision-making is the best in the division, by far,” he concluded.
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