Accompanying Tom Aspinall in his first heavyweight title defense (up to 120,2kg), Andy Aspinall, the champion's father, seems determined to share, or perhaps even steal, the spotlight from his son at UFC 321. Approached by the press to discuss the fighter's career, the coach didn't hesitate to take the lead in future decisions.
Notoriously disturbed by Tom's treatment in the UFC, Andy has once again expressed his disinterest in strengthening ties with the organization. This time, the champion's father made a controversial statement, stating that, in his personal opinion, Aspinall should compete three more times in the Octagon and then abandon MMA for boxing.
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“There’s more money (in boxing). He has three more fights (remaining) on his contract now, and I don’t want to sign a new contract,” Andy stated in an interview with RMC Sport Combat.
This wasn't the first time Andy had highlighted the UFC's "low pay" to his athlete. In a video posted on Tom's channel in September, the champion's father had already expressed interest in taking a promising athlete away from the organization.
Tom Aspinall alongside his father Andy Aspinall. Photo: Reproduction/X
"They say Tom's money is good. Compared to a football player, an American football player, he makes a small fraction of what those guys make. He's one of the best in the world at what he does, and he doesn't get paid enough. And it's a dangerous sport. When he gets tired of it, I'll support him leaving," he said.
The protagonist of UFC 321, Aspinall prepares to face Ciryl Gane in Abu Dhabi, this Saturday (25). Currently, the fighter comes into the fight with three consecutive knockouts, all within the first two minutes of the fight.
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