UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall’s recent comments on the health update of Stipe Miocic have caused quite a stir. Aspinall has long wanted to compete for the undisputed heavyweight title. As such, the Brit has mocked both the champion and Miocic in recent times. This time, it was not Jon Jones, but Miocic who gave a sarcastic reaction following the injury rumors spread by the Brit.
The UFC interim heavyweight champion recently used his YouTube channel to address the rumors circulating online. He clarified that these rumors, which suggested Miocic was injured, were false. Following the widespread attention of alleged injury concerns, Miocic responded in a manner reminiscent of Donald Trump.
The ex-champion of the UFC heavyweight division appeared on X and posted a GIF that included the former President of the United States, Donald Trump. In the GIF, the words “FAKE NEWS!” flash rhythmically. The world of fighting, particularly Jon Jones, felt a sense of relief, and the excitement for Miocic’s opportunity to compete for the title persisted.
Interestingly, Tom Aspinall didn’t only just inform about Miocic’s injury rumors; he also stated the reason for it. Per Aspinall, the age of the Cleveland native is another factor that might make him more prone to injuries. The British fighter’s ambitions for that title have been quite evident for a long time now.
Not only that, but Aspinall’s exquisite performances in the division also make him an undeniable contender for the title. His recent victory against Curtis Blaydes clearly exemplifies his fighting skill set. Following that fight, there were several back-and-forths between Aspinall and Jones as the former wanted to replace Miocic in the title fight.
Tom Aspinall prepares to be the backup fighter in the Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic fight
Aspinall has been trying to get a fight with Jones since winning the interim belt last fall. However, Jon ‘Bones’ Jones doesn’t seem to care about fighting the Brit. The UFC heavyweight champion has clearly stated that he remains focused on his fight with Stipe Miocic. Interestingly, Miocic hasn’t stepped inside the octagon in the last three years. On the other hand, Jones’ last fight was in March 2023.
Tom Aspinall is set to be the backup fighter for Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic fight (Image via Imago)Although both Jones and Miocic were once scheduled for UFC 295, injury concerns derailed the fight. Following this, Aspinall was seemingly unhappy with Jones for holding the belt hostage. However, in his recent YouTube video, the Brit claimed he would be the backup fighter for the Bones vs. Miocic fight.
After my last fight against Curtis Blaydes, there wasn’t talk about me being the backup fighter. The UFC Spoke to me directly about that. I said, I’m in. Somebody pulls out, I’m in. One day’s notice, 10 days notice, 10 weeks notice, 1 hour’s notice. I’ll be prepared for that date. So ,you let me know, I’ll be there. I’ll be in. I’m ready to take the fight.
Tom Aspinall on his YouTube channel
The British fighter is hopeful that he will finally get his chance to fight for the title as he believes one among them might withdraw due to injury. Interestingly, Jones has been hinting about retirement following the fight. In that case, Aspinall also asked ‘Bones’ to hand over the title following the Miocic fight.
