Tom Aspinall is ready to make an all too familiar step for UFC fighters in the modern era. Not only is Aspinall eyeing a move over to boxing as it becomes a popular move among new-age martial artists, but he also has his sights planted on fellow MMA powerhouse Francis Ngannou as a potential opponent.
The Brit has come under fire of late following the disappointing ending to his first undisputed title defense against Ciryl Gane two months ago. An illegal eye poke ended the event prematurely, with many believing that the champion was losing up to that point in the fight.
MMA is often a reactionary sport, and despite the negatives surrounding Tom Aspinall, he remains one of the very best in the world. Though he has proved he can dominate the fight no matter where it takes place, Aspinall has a tendency to rely on his hands, which has been a solid game plan for him up to this stage of his career.
Intending to take the next step in his career before hanging up the gloves, Aspinall has discussed the possibility of one day making the walk to the boxing ring.
“I’d never be a world champion,” Aspinall said of his potential boxing move. “I wouldn’t try and be a world champion. You need to dedicate your whole life, don’t you, to be a world champion.”
“I was [good at boxing]. Yeah, but I spent my whole life doing MMA now, haven’t I? I’m nearly 33 now. So, for me to be 33 and then think that I’m going to win a world title in boxing, it’s unrealistic.”
Tom Aspinall is known for his lightning-quick speed as a heavyweight, something rarely seen in a man of his stature. Coupling that with his footwork and ability to shut the lights out of whoever is standing in the opposing corner likely makes him a dangerous man to compete against.
If a venture into boxing becomes viable for Aspinall, there will be much intrigue from fans to see who could be the man standing across the ring from him.
Doubtful of taking the sport too seriously and with challenging for world titles out the window, the UFC heavyweight champion sees Francis Ngannou as a good option for him.
“I reckon I could have a couple of like, not freak show fights, but like big fights. Against a big name or something…”
“I wouldn’t mind boxing an MMA fighter. Do you know what I mean? I think that would be good. [Francis Ngannou] Yeah, I think that’d be good. I like it.”
Related: Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou: ‘I need a fight’
Unlike Tom Aspinall, Francis Ngannou has some experience boxing professionally. The Cameroonian performed valiantly as he fell short to Tyson Fury in a razor-close split decision despite scoring a knockdown during the bout.
Ngannou is open to a boxing return, believing he is good enough to finally force his way into the winner’s circle following a 0-2 start to his career.
Before he can showcase his ability in the ring, Tom Aspinall will be dead set on proving the doubters wrong in the cage after his unsatisfying display last time out.
Though no date has been confirmed, with no standout contender making a case for themselves in the division, Ciryl Gane will likely be given the chance to rectify his mistake and possibly capture the UFC heavyweight title next.
This will be Gane’s fourth shot at undisputed gold in the octagon, essentially making it a must-win affair for the Frenchman.
“I’ve got fights in the UFC to do first,” Aspinall continued. “I’ve got them fights to do.”
Listen to Tom Aspinall’s boxing plan below.
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