Now the UFC heavyweight champion (up to 120,2kg), Tom Aspinall intends to shake things up in the division. The Englishman – who waited a long time for Jon Jones and the fight never materialized – has promised to fight twice more this year. Aspinall won the interim title in 2023 and hasn't fought since August of last year.
See too
“I hope to fight twice this year. At least that’s my plan. I think I’ve wasted too much time already. We want to schedule a fight quickly, and it looks like it’s going to be soon anyway. And then, if everything goes well in the first one, I hope I don’t get injured—which is easier said than done, since I can go through a fight with a guy my size and come out without injuries. But if I can, I’d like to fight at the end of the year too. That would be perfect,” Tom Aspinall told the channel 'The Diary Of A CEO'.
The now champion of the category did not shy away from the questioning and pointed out who would be the next opponent he would like to face and finally put the belt of the most noble division at stake.
“Actually, I’ve already fought many of the top 10. One of the guys I haven’t fought yet is Ciryl Gane , a Frenchman. Actually, I’ve been chasing that fight a few times before. He’s been dodging and dodging a bit. He’s going to give me a beating. I’m looking forward to it,” said Aspinall.
Jon Jones' retirement gives Aspinall the belt
At 37 years old, Jon Jones ended his career with a record of 28 wins, one loss by disqualification, and one no-contest, solidifying his status as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. He started in MMA in 2008, made a lightning-fast UFC debut, and in March 2011, at 23 years and eight months old, became the youngest champion in UFC history. In the light heavyweight division, he defended his title 11 times.
The athlete moved up to the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg) and submitted Ciryl Gane in 2023, winning the belt in the new category. In November 2024, he knocked out Stipe Miocic in his first and only heavyweight title defense, reaffirming his legendary legacy.
Tom Aspinall: new champion
Tom Aspinall is the new UFC heavyweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/UFC India
Tom Aspinall spoke out on social media minutes after announcing his retirement. In a short post , the new undisputed champion promised an active reign in the division.
“For you fans, it’s time to get this heavyweight division moving. An active linear champion,” wrote the Briton when posting the video of Dana White’s statement.
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
Read More about: Ciryl Gane, Jon Jones, Tom aspinall
You need to log in to comment.