On June 2, 2025, Tom Aspinall boldly declared himself the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion, marking a pivotal shift in the division. With Jon Jones seemingly retired, Aspinall, frustrated by delays, is ready to defend his title and keep the heavyweight ranks active. As the longest-reigning interim champ, holding the belt for nearly 600 days, Aspinall stands prepared to face all challengers and reignite excitement for UFC fans worldwide.
The Changing Heavyweight Landscape
The UFC heavyweight division has undergone major changes in recent years. With Aspinall rising as a dominant force, the title picture now faces a reset. While fans once anticipated a unification bout with Jon Jones, Aspinall has made it clear: it’s time to move on. His declaration isn’t just confidence — it’s a challenge to every contender in the division.
Aspinall’s Take on Jon Jones
In a recent interview, Aspinall stated, “Jon’s retired. What are you talking about?” While respecting Jones’ legendary career, Aspinall believes the future belongs to the active fighters. He voiced frustration over the division’s stagnation, emphasizing that both fans and contenders are eager for meaningful fights.
Ready for All Challengers
Aspinall isn’t waiting for a “big name” — he’s focused on defending his status against any and all challengers. Potential matchups include Ciryl Gane, Alexander Volkov, and even crossover bouts with names like Brock Lesnar. His goal? Bring life back to the division by staying active and delivering exciting matchups.
Injecting New Life into the Division
“I want to stay active to bring excitement back,” Aspinall said, underscoring his commitment to the sport. This approach — prioritizing activity over waiting — could set a new standard for UFC champions and reinvigorate the heavyweight class for both fans and fighters.
Conclusion: A New Era for Heavyweight MMA
Aspinall’s rise signals a fresh chapter for the UFC heavyweight division. His willingness to fight anyone, rather than chasing a single superstar, reflects a generational shift in MMA. As he prepares for his next bout, one question looms: Who will step up for a shot at the title? With Aspinall at the helm, the division’s future looks bright and competitive.
Key Point
- Tom Aspinall’s Stance: Declares himself the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion and is ready to fight all challengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Tom Aspinall say about Jon Jones’ retirement?
Aspinall believes Jon Jones has effectively retired, noting his lifestyle shift away from MMA and wishing him well.
What are Aspinall’s current aspirations in the UFC heavyweight division?
Aspinall aims to defend his title against top contenders and revitalize the division’s excitement and activity.
How long has Tom Aspinall been the interim champion?
Aspinall has held the interim UFC heavyweight title for nearly 600 days — the longest reign in history.
Does Tom Aspinall want to fight Jon Jones?
No, Aspinall is focused on the division’s future and facing active contenders, not chasing a fight with Jon Jones.
What does Aspinall think about the current state of the heavyweight division?
Aspinall believes the division has been stagnant for too long and is eager to bring back energy through regular fights.