Tom Aspinall sends MMA fans into frenzy with 'heavyweight announcement'
Tom Aspinall has sent MMA fans into meltdown following his recent announcement - despite warning the UFC faithful the news would NOT be fight related.
The interim heavyweight champion has not fought since defending his title last July against Curtis Blaydes. As for Jones, the 37-year-old defeated Ciryl Gane to claim the undisputed belt at heavyweight, but has only defended the strap once - a knockout victory over Stipe Miocic last November.
Immediately after the dust-up in New York, there was talk Jones might hang up his gloves, but he has since vowed to continue for at least one more fight. Six months on from the American's last fight, fans are still waiting for the UFC to finally announce the unification showdown between 'Bones' and Aspinall.
Despite the delay, UFC chief Dana White insists that significant news will be announced soon.On Wednesday evening, after a lengthy tease, Aspinall confirmed that he had penned a long-term partnership with sportswear brand Champion as well as a signature collection.
While it was not fight news, the massive endorsement deal with Champion is a big deal for the 32-year-old. Following the announcement, he even teased news of an undisputed fight this year, saying in the campaign content: 'This game will test everything, your body, your mind your, your patience.' He was then quoted as saying: 'This is the year of the undisputed champion,' indicating a potential unification showdown this year.
"I'm thrilled to be partnering with Champion, a brand with global reach and deep roots in sport" declared Aspinall in a press release. "Champion's values really reflect who I am and what I want to do in MMA. I've always said I believe I can transcend the sport into the mainstream. And we're not just creating gear - we're making apparel that works for fighters and inspires the next generation."
The British heavyweight sensation added: "This couldn't come at a better time. This is the year of the true undisputed champion. Someone who stays true to themself, dedicated to the sport, never says no to a fight and connects with the people who matter: the fans."
Before the big reveal, Aspinall had repeatedly reminded his followers on social media that fight announcements come from the UFC, not him. "As I said when it was first posted, I DO NOT ANNOUNCE MY FIGHT NEWS," he asserted, sharing a screenshot of a comment saying: "UFC announce my fights guys, not me."
Social media has been abuzz with reactions to Aspinall's news. One fan posted: "This is why I never care about those 'Special Announcements' bc it's always something outside of fighting," while another voiced their frustration: "Even though he told everyone multiple times I'm still fumin'." A different user showed their disappointment, posting: "Awwww damn. Thought it was Jones agreeing."
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