Aspinall Set for Title Defense in Manchester Rematch Against Blaydes

Tom Aspinall, fresh off an injury comeback, is gearing up for his first title defense of the interim UFC heavyweight championship against Curtis Blaydes this Saturday. Aspinall, who recently claimed the title, expressed his determination to succeed in the sport, stating, “I want to get paid for what I like doing.” His journey has been marked by a realization that, despite the accolades of his opponents, he has the potential to compete at the highest level. Reflecting on his time away from the octagon, Aspinall emphasized the importance of self-belief in achieving success. He noted that during his recovery, he reassessed his training and mental preparation, which he described as “all the stuff that was dragging me down.” This introspection has propelled him to the top of the heavyweight rankings, positioning him for a potential title shot against current champion Jon Jones, who is set to face Stipe Miocic in November. Aspinall's upcoming fight at UFC 304 holds special significance as it takes place in his hometown of Manchester, featuring a card that showcases several British fighters. He has adapted his training regimen to prepare for the event, stating, “I’ve had to switch my body clock up.” With the support of local fans, Aspinall aims to defend his title successfully and solidify his status in the heavyweight division.