Tom Aspinall divides MMA world with 60-second KO over Curtis Blaydes: One half says "early stoppage," other wants Jon Jones next

Tom Aspinall ensured that his performance at UFC 304 against Curtis Blaydes communicated a message with absolute clarity – he wants a crack at the undisputed gold against Jon Jones.

The interim UFC heavyweight champion dispatched Blaydes with a one-two combination and follow-up strikes in 60 seconds to bolster his claim as the next challenger in line for the undisputed title. Following the win, the UK fighter reinforced his challenge to Jones.

However, a faction of the MMA community disputed that the fight was prematurely stopped. UFC middleweight contender Eryk Anders wrote:

"Early stoppage."

UFC bantamweight title challenger Merab Dvalishvili contested:

"And Marc Goddard stops a fight early again. Let fighters fight."

Meanwhile, former UFC middleweight contender Derek Brunson sided with the section that wants Aspinall to challenge Jones next:

"Jon Jones v Tom Aspinall is a must, scrap the Stipe fight! I speak for everyone."

Former UFC women's featherweight title challenger Megan Anderson wrote:

"Tom Aspinall ladies and gentlemen... and in under a minute. It's actually insane at this point! Give him that unification fight already! #ufc304"

Check out some of the reactions below:

Fighters react to Tom Aspinall's victory over Curtis Blaydes [Images courtesy: Fighter accounts on X]

Reactions to Tom Aspinall's victory over Curtis Blaydes [Images courtesy: Fighter accounts on X]

Having defended the interim title against Blaydes, the cards are stacked in Aspinall's favor for a high-profile fight against Jones. However, UFC CEO Dana White seems firm on the idea of 'Bones' taking on Stipe Miocic next.

Aspinall's performance at UFC 304 might not be enough to accelerate his claim for the undisputed gold immediately. Nevertheless, he will likely challenge the winner of the Jones vs. Miocic clash eventually, as confirmed by White during the UFC 304 press conference.

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Watch: Paddy Pimblett's live reaction to Tom Aspinall's win at UFC 304

Tom Aspinall got the better of Curtis Blaydes in just 60 seconds to avenge his only UFC loss. Following the win at UFC 304, Aspinall called out Jon Jones for a fight, asserting that he believes that he's "better" than the reigning heavyweight champion.

Fellow UK star Paddy Pimblett, who made quick work of King Green with a first-round submission victory, reacted to Aspinall's win during his post-fight interview with TNT Sports. Pimblett said:

"Tom just got the win there... Yes, Tom! Yes, lad! Go on the big fella."

Check out the video below: