Tom Aspinall was able to defend his interim heavyweight title for the first time at UFC 304 last month as he defeated Curtis Blaydes via first-round TKO in the co-main event. Meanwhile, Alex Pereira has hinted that he is interested in challenging himself by making the move to a third division.
The No.1-ranked heavyweight recently revealed a timeline for a potential clash with the light-heavyweight champion.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aspinall stated:
"Obviously, the guy is a superstar in the sport, so do whatever you want, but if we meet, for sure, I think we're both on the same page - it's going to be for an undisputed heavyweight title. So, maybe see you next year at some point.
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"Like I said, I've got a lot of respect for Alex Pereira and what he's done in the sport - and especially in a short amount of time - but if we're going to make it happen, it's going to be for the undisputed title, so we'll see him there."
Check out Tom Aspinall's comments on facing Alex Pereira below:
Pereira has shared that he would be interested in facing either Aspinall or Jon Jones at heavyweight. It remains unclear, however, if the latter will continue to fight after facing Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November. If 'Bones' opts to delay his retirement, 'Poatan' would likely have to wait for a title unification bout before receiving an opportunity to fight for the heavyweight belt.
Serghei Spivac weighs in on potential Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall title unification bout
Tom Aspinall has angled for a clash with Jon Jones since capturing the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295 last November. 'Bones' originally appeared set to headline the card against Stipe Miocic, however, he was forced to withdraw from the bout due to injury. While he has yet to return, the planned title bout is reportedly in line for UFC 309.
Serghei Spivac believes a heavyweight title unification bout between Jones and Aspinall will come down to what the UFC offers the former. Speaking at the UFC on ESPN 61 media day, the No. 9-ranked heavyweight praised both fighters before adding:
"I think the question is how much they offer him, what the offer is going to be, but really it might happen and I think Jones has got plenty of powder left, so he can still show himself well."
Check out Serghei Spivac's full comments on Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall below:
Jones planned to retire after UFC 295, however, his injury has delayed those plans. He recently revealed that he is not planning to make a decision on his future until after facing Miocic. If he does opt to continue his career, Aspinall will receive the next opportunity to challenge him for the undisputed title.