Aspinall New Undisputed Heavyweight Champion After Jones Steps Down

UFC icon Chael Sonnen revealed Tuesday that Tom Aspinall is slated to confront Jailton Almeida in his initial title defense.

Aspinall, who held the interim title for the longest duration in UFC history, has been formally recognized as the new undisputed heavyweight champion. This follows the confirmed retirement of MMA legend Jon Jones this past weekend by the promotion.

As the UFC actively seeks his next challenger, Aspinall is preparing for his first defense of the title.

Many top UFC heavyweights are vying for a chance at Aspinall’s title, with Ciryl Gane, currently ranked second in the UFC heavyweight division, emerging as a leading candidate to battle Aspinall for the heavyweight title.

However, Sonnen asserted on his YouTube platform that ‘the heavyweight title fight is set,’ and Gane is not the contender.

Sonnen’s Statement

“I’m about to share an exclusive insight. The heavyweight title contest is confirmed. Ciryl will not be facing Tom. Why hasn’t any heavyweight stepped forward to challenge Tom Aspinall, our undisputed champion?” Sonnen questioned.

“The signs have been quite evident… Despite expectations of Aspinall versus Gane, I don’t foresee that matchup materializing. I believe Jailton Almeida is in line for that fight,” he elaborated.

Aspinall’s last appearance in the ring was almost a year ago, when he secured a first-round TKO victory against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 last July in their rematch.

UFC CEO Dana White recently addressed the matter of Aspinall’s next opponent, stating prior to International Fight Week that the organization intends to meet with Aspinall to determine his next fight.

White’s Comments

“Tom will be present throughout the coming week. We plan to sit down with him to understand his thoughts and preferences. He has been remarkably cooperative, expressing his willingness to face any opponent we designate. I anticipate a successful era for Tom Aspinall.”