Tom Aspinall is destined to become a household name in the UFC heavyweight division. The British fighter has been generating highlights with his well-rounded skill set, explosive performances and calm composure inside the octagon.
While the heavyweight division is full of giants and hard-hitting powerhouses, Tom Aspinall seems to represent the next generation of UFC heavyweights. With Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic finally being confirmed for UFC 309, we are guaranteed to see Aspinall next in line to fight for the UFC Heavyweight championship. Here are five reasons why Tom Aspinall is destined to become the next UFC heavyweight champion:
While the heavyweight division is full of giants and hard-hitting powerhouses, Tom Aspinall seems to represent the next generation of UFC heavyweights. With Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic finally being confirmed for UFC 309, we are guaranteed to see Aspinall next in line to fight for the UFC Heavyweight championship. Here are five reasons why Tom Aspinall is destined to become the next UFC heavyweight champion:1. Blazing Speed and Movement for a Heavyweight
Heavyweights are known for their knockout power, but rarely for their speed. Tom Aspinall is an exception. At 6’5” and 256 pounds, he moves like a middleweight. His quick footwork, sharp angles, and rapid hands give him a massive advantage over slower opponents. Aspinall’s ability to get in and out of range, while avoiding damage, is a rare ability for someone in his weight class. It’s this speed that helps him dictate the pace of the fight, something his opponents have struggled to handle.
2. Elite Striking with a Boxing Background
Aspinall grew up in a fighting family, with a father who was a jiu-jitsu coach, but his boxing skills are what really set him apart. His hands are incredibly fast, and his striking technique is crisp and precise. He doesn’t just rely on power punches like many heavyweights; instead, Aspinall breaks down his opponents with accuracy and timing. His knockouts aren’t wild, one-punch chaos — they’re calculated, often leaving his opponents unable to recover. His performance against Sergey Spivak, where he picked his shots and finished with surgical precision, is a perfect example of his clinical striking game.
3. Dangerous Ground Game
While Aspinall’s striking might be what first catches the eye, his ground game is equally impressive. He’s a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has shown in multiple fights that he’s just as comfortable on the mat as he is on his feet. The ability to submit heavyweight opponents, who typically aren’t as well-versed in grappling, makes him a even more of a threat. His submission win over former heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski showcased that when the fight hits the ground, Aspinall is a major problem. His seamless transitions from striking to grappling keep his opponents guessing and on the defensive, increasing his opportunities to create offence.
4. Mental Toughness and Composure
One of the most critical aspects of any champion is mental toughness. Aspinall possesses a calmness inside the octagon that belies his ferocity. Even when facing high-pressure situations, he remains composed and sticks to his game plan. This was evident in his comeback fight against Marcin Tybura after a year away due to injury. Many fighters might have struggled mentally with such a long layoff. However, Aspinall returned sharper than ever, finishing Tybura in under two minutes. His ability to stay cool under pressure and adapt on the fly is what separates good fighters from great champions.
5. Still Improving and Hungry for Gold
At just 31 years old, Aspinall is entering his prime. Unlike some older heavyweights who have already reached their ceiling, Aspinall is still improving with every fight. He’s hungry to learn and evolve, constantly refining his skills. His dedication to growth, both mentally and physically, ensures that he’ll only get better with time. Aspinall has also expressed his desire to test himself against the very best, and his ambition to fight for the title only increases his motivation to become the best in the world.
Tom Aspinall is a rare breed in the heavyweight division—a fighter who combines speed, skill, and intelligence. With his exceptional striking, dangerous ground game, and mental toughness, he’s positioned to take over the division. As long as he continues on this path, it’s only a matter of time before Tom Aspinall has the UFC belt wrapped around his waist. Keep your eyes on him—he’s going to make waves.
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