Who Should Aspinall Fight After Jones' Retirement?

Tom Aspinall has plans to fight twice this year as we look at who he could face after Jon Jones’ retirement. 

Aspinall saw his hopes of the Jones fight end as the latter announced his retirement from the UFC. The news meant that Aspinall was elevated to the heavyweight champion, ending his record for being the longest interim champion. Naturally, the attention has turned to who he could face next. 

Options

Instagram: ciryl_gane

One name in the running is Ciryl Gane. Gane is known for his striking, with the use of his precise kicks, knees, and elbows. He also possesses impressive movement and footwork. Gane is currently the leading contender in the division, making him the ideal candidate. Gane missed out on the world title after Jones submitted him in the first round. Since that loss, Gane has bounced back with wins against Alexander Volkov and Serghei Spivac, respectively. 

Instagram: mmanews_br and malhadinho_ufc

Another alternative is Jailton Almeida. Almeida is known for being a grappler. 13 of his 22 victories have come by way of submission. His strengths lie in his ability to secure takedowns and then pile on the pressure by using ground-and-pound shots. Almeida has previously called out Tom. Tom would face a challenge by having to get his takedown defense in order. Almeida also has an impressive UFC record, with eight wins and the only loss coming against Curtis Blaydes. 

Instagram: volkov_alex

Alexander Volkov may be another option. Aspinall has already beaten him, securing a first-round submission win in 2022. Since that loss, Volkov has secured wins over Tai Tuivasa and Sergei Pavlovich.  Volkov is a tall fighter, with good kickboxing skills. He uses his height and reach, landing precise jabs. While he may not be Tom’s primary target, Volkov is still a credible name. Either way, Tom’s aim is to stay active. 

Tom Reacts

"I’m going to be fighting hopefully twice this year. That’s my plan, at least. I think I’ve wasted enough time. We’re looking to get a fight booked quick and it’s looking like it’s going to be pretty soon, anyway. And then hopefully, if everything goes well in the first one, I’m uninjured — which is easier said than done getting through a fight with a guy my size and coming out with no injuries.

"But if I can do that, I would like to fight at the end of the year as well. That’d be perfect. I’ve actually fought a lot of the top 10. One of the guys I’ve not fought is Ciryl Gane, a French guy. I was actually chasing that fight a few times before. He was ducking and diving around himself a little bit. He is due a little bit of a beating off me. I look forward to that," Aspinall said

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