Elevating dialogue surrounding UFC 309 was Tom Aspinall without having to verbally contribute. Accompanied by his father and lifelong mentor, Andy Aspinall, a respected figure in U.K. martial arts, they made their appearance in New York to meet the interim champion’s responsibility as the reserve for the anticipated Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic match.
Given the buildup to fight week, there was a pre-existing anticipation for a unification showdown between Aspinall and Jones. However, Jones’ lack of enthusiasm towards their potential encounter unexpectedly heightened the eagerness for Jones vs. Aspinall, making it, arguably, the most coveted match in 2025 MMA scene.
Upon annexing a third-round victory over Miocic which marked the latter’s retirement, Jones conceded that engaging in a showdown with the U.K.’s Aspinall would require a considerable incentive — what he termed as ‘f*** you money.’ The Aspinall family received promising whispers regarding the possible bout, with UFC executives pledging their utmost efforts to ensure the match becomes reality.
Speculating on the location of their potential face-off, Andy Aspinall optimistically forecasted it to occur in Vegas, ‘the place where they’ll generate the most revenue, right? That’s my belief.’
Andy also conveyed his assertion that Jones views his son as no small challenge, expressing his suspicion that Jones’ hesitation to confirm the bout stems from this perception of threat. Aspinall, keeping Jones firmly in his sights, now possesses the title of UFC interim heavyweight champion, thanks to his prolific coach who offered an evaluation of Jones’ performance against Miocic at the age of 37.
Andy opined that the established UFC icon might struggle to keep tabs on his younger adversary during their potential dual. Aspinall, meanwhile, emphatically states his primary ambition is to secure the undisputed champion title, regardless of his opponent.
Perking up the discussion of their prospective encounter, Aspinall’s father suggested a monetary benefit should Jones continue to negotiate. He said, ‘If the whispers about Jon’s negotiations keep flowing, that could mean an increased purse for Tom. Yet Tom’s focus remains undeterred, he’s not particular about his opponent, he just aspires to clinch the champion title.’
Undoubtedly, given the unparalleled prowess that Aspinall brings to the Octagon, the eventual standoff between him and Jones, if it happens, promises to distinguish itself from any previous encounters.
Tom Aspinall’s silence during the UFC 309 fight week spoke volumes, drawing the sporting world’s attention as he and his father, a legend in U.K. martial arts, made their presence felt in New York. They were not merely spectators but represented the contingency plan for the Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic main event.
Jones’ indifference toward a possible unification match with Aspinall turned out to be a strange catalyst, drumming up the desire for a Jones vs. Aspinall headliner, potentially the most sought-after event of 2025. After edging out Miocic into retirement, Jones acknowledged that the prospect of taking on Aspinall could be enticing but for the right price.
UFC executives, seeing potential in this pairing, are pulling out all the stops to cement the unification fight. Andy Aspinall, in his speculative style, briefed that Las Vegas, the arena that promises the most revenue, would likely be the hosting ground.
Aspinall’s family is convinced that Jones sees Tom as a formidable opponent, which they believe could be a factor in his initial reluctance regarding the bout. Meanwhile, Aspinall’s goal beams clear — to rise to the pinnacle of the UFC heavyweight division transcending the competitors.
With an air of ambivalence, Andy mentions possible benefits should negotiations with Jones extend, implying that it could eventually translate into a bigger payday for Tom. Indeed, Tom Aspinall’s ambition to claim the championship remains unwavering, despite the identity of his opponent.