Tom Aspinall, the 30-year-old Manchester native, has been making waves in the world of MMA. After securing finishes in all 14 of his professional wins, Aspinall recently clinched the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295 at Madison Square Garden. But this victory was more than just a win; it was a whirlwind of emotions and unexpected moments that took Tom by surprise.
Aspinall’s journey to the interim heavyweight title was unconventional, to say the least. He stepped into the octagon on just two weeks’ notice after an injury to champion Jon Jones forced a change in plans. What makes this victory even more remarkable is that Tom had hurt his back in the week leading up to the fight, leaving him with minimal preparation time. Despite these dire circumstances, Aspinall managed to knock out Sergei Pavlovich, a fighter known for his six consecutive first-round finishes, in just 69 seconds.
However, the rollercoaster ride didn’t stop in the octagon. After his victory, Aspinall found himself in a post-fight celebration, searching for food in the bustling Times Square with his mentor and father, Andy. The night continued with celebratory beers at his hotel, where he held his new belt high. It was a momentous occasion that only began to sink in as he sat on the plane heading home later that evening.
“I had some alone time on the plane, and I was just like, ‘That was big,'” Aspinall reflects. “It kind of hit me that I’ve just come and won the interim title on two weeks’ notice and beat the scariest guy in the UFC.”
What makes Aspinall’s story even more endearing is his transition from the glory of the octagon to the school run. As a devoted father of three, his children’s nonchalant reaction to his championship win was both heartwarming and humorous. “My kids weren’t too bothered, you know [that I was champion]. But yeah, I love that. What was important to them was that their dad was home,” he chuckled.
Since his victory, Tom Aspinall has been catapulted into the limelight, receiving congratulations from celebrities like Gordon Ramsay and Noel Gallagher. He’s even been invited to Manchester United’s Old Trafford. But it’s not just his fighting skills that have captured people’s hearts; it’s his humility, cheeky humor, and relatability.
“I’m a big hit at the school gate these days. Mums, dads, and kids love to come over and speak, but I don’t mean to blow my own trumpet, but I’m a big guy, aren’t I?” Aspinall jokes.
Despite his newfound fame, Aspinall remains grounded and has a clear role model in mind: former double champion Georges St-Pierre. Aspinall aspires to be like St-Pierre, not only in the octagon but also in life. “I wanna be exactly like Georges St-Pierre. I think he’s a champion inside and outside of the octagon,” he states.
Looking ahead, Aspinall is eager to keep his momentum going. However, he faces a challenge due to champion Jon Jones’s injury and the UFC’s interest in matching Jones with Stipe Miocic when he returns. Aspinall finds himself in a tricky position, with a potentially lengthy wait before a title shot. Still, he remains determined to face Miocic, with the winner earning the right to challenge Jones when he’s back from injury.
Aspinall’s ambition has drawn some criticism, especially from Jones himself, but he remains steadfast in his pursuit. “I want my opportunity before it’s too late,” Aspinall declares, “because that time is going to run out soon.”
In the end, Tom Aspinall’s journey from a last-minute replacement to interim heavyweight champion is a story of determination, family, and a touch of humor. As he continues to chase his dreams, the world watches with anticipation to see what this down-to-earth giant will achieve next in the world of MMA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion
Q: How did Tom Aspinall secure the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295?
A: Tom Aspinall stepped in as a last-minute replacement, facing Sergei Pavlovich on just two weeks’ notice. Despite minimal preparation and a back injury, he knocked out Pavlovich in 69 seconds to win the interim heavyweight title.
Q: What was the reaction of Tom Aspinall’s family to his championship win?
A: Tom’s children were nonchalant about his championship victory. What mattered to them was that their dad was home, and they even had a humorous moment involving his championship belt.
Q: Who are some celebrities who congratulated Tom Aspinall after his win?
A: Celebrities like Gordon Ramsay and Noel Gallagher congratulated Tom on his victory, adding to his post-fight celebrations and recognition.
Q: Who does Tom Aspinall aspire to be like in his MMA career?
A: Tom Aspinall looks up to former double champion Georges St-Pierre and aspires to emulate him, not only in the octagon but also as a person with the right morals and dedication to health and sport.
Q: What challenges does Tom Aspinall face in his pursuit of the undisputed heavyweight title?
A: Tom Aspinall faces challenges due to Jon Jones’s injury and the UFC’s interest in matching Jones with Stipe Miocic upon his return. This situation leaves Tom in a tricky position, with potential delays in his quest for a title shot.
More about UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion
- Tom Aspinall’s UFC Profile
- Georges St-Pierre’s Legacy
- UFC 295 Event Details
- Tom Aspinall’s Instagram
- Gordon Ramsay’s Congratulatory Tweet
- Noel Gallagher’s Message
4 comments
Wow, Tom aspinall’s journey is amazin he’s a real champ inside and outside the ring. luv the way he talks about his family, it’s cute.
this champ went through so much, injurys and all but still knocked his opponent out in 69 seconds? Impressive!
I’m rootin for Tom, he’s got that cheeky humor and humility that sets him apart. And Georges St-Pierre is a legend, great role model choice!
Noel Gallagher congratulated him? That’s wild, Tom’s really makin it big!