Tom Aspinall Reveals Major Update Ahead of UFC Return

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2 days ago

Tom Aspinall Reveals Major Update Ahead of UFC Return originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The UFC's heavyweight division has been frozen in time. With the title picture murky and Jon Jones sidelined, the promotion's biggest weight class has remained in limbo for months. Media speculation has run wild, and fans have grown restless waiting for clarity. Some are starting to think the division's been trapped in a five-round staring contest with no bell in sight. After weeks of silence from UFC brass, the interim champion has stepped in to deliver what many hope is the spark that sets the division back in motion. His presence alone has refocused attention, but it was his latest appearance that gave the clearest sign yet of a shift underway.
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Appearing on ESPN MMA with Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen, Tom Aspinall brought the energy that's been sorely missing in recent months. With confidence and conviction, he made his position crystal clear:
'The active heavyweight champion is here to fight them all. Let's get it on.'
Cormier pressed him further, asking whether he truly had something locked in. Aspinall didn't flinch:
'Well, I'll tell you something: I've got a date and a location.'
His tone suggested it's not speculation—it's a done deal. And when the topic of Jon Jones surfaced, Aspinall dismissed the idea that the undisputed champ remains relevant to his future.
'Guys, why are we still talking about Jon? He's retired. He's done.'
That comment alone was enough to stir debate across the MMA landscape. Aspinall's confidence is backed by action, and his readiness to move forward stands in contrast to the UFC's long-standing silence. With the interim champ seemingly booked and ready, the pressure is now on the promotion to reveal its next move.
Tom AspinallGetty Images
Despite the buzz, UFC President Dana White and the promotion continue to keep things close to the chest. But with Aspinall sounding off and the calendar moving, signs point toward official news breaking soon. The heavyweight logjam may finally be cracking—and when it does, it could reshape the UFC's biggest division overnight. If Aspinall's timeline holds true, fans won't be waiting much longer for a major announcement.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 3, 2025, where it first appeared.