.png)
The UFC's heavyweight division is gearing up for an intriguing spectacle as interim champion Tom Aspinall sets his sights on defending his title against a worthy adversary in 2024. Following his swift victory over Sergei Pavlovich, claiming the interim gold at UFC 295 with a lightning-fast knockout in just 69 seconds, Aspinall is eager to step back into the octagon.
While basking in the glory of his recent triumph, Aspinall understands that his shot at the undisputed title won't come immediately. Stipe Miocic is slated to challenge current titleholder Jon Jones upon Jones' return from injury, leaving Aspinall in a holding pattern regarding his next move.
Expressing his desire to stay active in the Octagon, Aspinall seeks a formidable opponent to test his mettle. With uncertainty surrounding Miocic and Jones post-fight retirement plans, Aspinall eyes the winner of the upcoming clash between Curtis Blaydes and Jailton Almeida at UFC 299 on March 9 in Miami.
Ranked No. 1 in the UFC heavyweight rankings, Aspinall has history with the No. 5-ranked Blaydes. Their previous showdown at UFC Fight Night 208 ended abruptly in just 15 seconds due to an injury sustained by Aspinall, resulting in a year-long hiatus following surgery.
Should Blaydes emerge victorious against Almeida, a rematch with Aspinall would carry significant narrative weight. However, Almeida, ranked No. 7, is no stranger to the spotlight after a stellar 2023, crowned the Breakout Fighter of the Year for his victories over notable heavyweights like Derrick Lewis, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and Shamil Abdurakhimov.
The prospect of Aspinall defending his interim UFC heavyweight title against the winner of this highly anticipated clash intensifies the excitement within the MMA community. Aspinall's readiness to return to action, coupled with the unpredictable nature of heavyweight matchups, ensures that fans are in for a thrilling chapter in the division's history.