Interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has been calling out Jon Jones since successful the interim championship in November 2023. Jones has been sidelined since tearing a pectoral tendon whereas getting ready to face former two-time titleholder Stipe Miocic at UFC 295. The 2 are anticipated to lastly battle later this 12 months.
Throughout Jones’ absence, Aspinall was topped the interim champion and can defend that title at UFC 304 on July 27 in Manchester, England towards fourth-ranked Curtis Blaydes. A win might put Aspinall on a collision course with Jones.
Former three-time mild heavyweight title challenger Alexander Gustafsson believes Aspinall will defeat Jones if a battle between the 2 involves fruition. Gustafsson fought Jones twice. He misplaced to Jones each instances however their first battle at UFC 165 might have been the hardest take a look at of Jones’ profession.
‘‘Aspinall is on hearth proper now and he’s a really, excellent heavyweight. I do not see anybody beating Aspinall proper now,” Gustafsson informed Crypto Sports activities Betting. “I perceive why Tom desires to battle Jon, it’s as a result of Jon is the GOAT, he’s the largest UFC star proper now. If Tom was to beat Jon it will be larger than successful any UFC belt. The most important achievement within the UFC proper now’s to beat Jon Jones. I perceive why Aspinall is chasing the battle. I feel he’s prepared for Jon. He is on hearth proper now. If he fights Jon Jones it must be now.
“Sure, I feel Tom can be an excessive amount of for Jon. He has all of the weapons to beat Jon. Jon hasn’t been that energetic, however he is nonetheless the GOAT. You’ll be able to by no means rely this man out, he is so freaking good at what he does,” Gustafsson continued. “He is dealt with each opponent and all people is aware of how good he’s, however Aspinall proper now, I see him as very harmful for Jon proper now. He is harmful on his toes, he is quick, he has nice footwork and he is a sensible fighter. He has the instruments to do good towards Jon and even beat him. If they are going to battle, now’s the time for Aspinall. He might go down as top-of-the-line heavyweights ever.’’
