Aspinall Eyes Two More Fights This Year, Gane Emerges as Potential Opponent

Tom Aspinall, the English Mixed Martial Artist (MMA), has expressed his desire to participate in two fights before the year concludes, seemingly moving on from a potential bout with Jon Jones.

Having waited for a considerable period, Aspinall appears to have shifted his focus towards securing his next opponent.

Jones, who claimed the vacant heavyweight title by defeating Ciryl Gane in the first round at UFC 285 in March 2023, has only defended the title once against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024.

Concurrently, Aspinall secured the interim title by defeating Sergei Pavlovich while Jones was sidelined due to injury and subsequently defended it successfully in July 2024.

Jones sparked excitement among fans recently by suggesting that ‘Tom and I agreed to wait for the UFC’ during a seminar held in Thailand.

Despite Jones’ declaration, Aspinall has publicly stated that the former champion is ‘retired’ and indicated that he has a date set for his upcoming fight.

With the Jones fight no longer a focus, Aspinall is now aiming to compete in two fights before the end of the current year.

“I’m prepared to fight, and my goal is to have two fights before the year is over, so that’s the plan,” Aspinall stated.

He further commented, “We are finally seeing some progress. Jones has had an exceptional career, and I respect his accomplishments… I wish him well, and we will move forward.”

With Jones no longer in the picture, the options for Aspinall’s next opponent are limited.

However, Gane could potentially step in as a replacement for ‘Bones’ if the UFC opts to make that change.

‘Bon Gamin’ remains among the top five heavyweight fighters that Aspinall has yet to face and defeat.