Jailton Almeida is eager to fight Tom Aspinall for the heavyweight championship, actively calling him out and preparing strategically, as he believes no other contender is as vocal or prepared for the challenge.
Jailton Almeida was “truly surprised but really happy” when UFC CEO Dana White announced Jon Jones‘ retirement. This unexpected news elevated Tom Aspinall to undisputed heavyweight champion. Finally, the division’s logjam clears, and “Malhadinho” hopes for a championship clash with Aspinall.
Almeida recently made quick work of Alexandr Romanov and Serghei Spivac, both first-round finishes. These victories helped him rebound from his first UFC loss. Ahead of him in the rankings are Ciryl Gane, Alexander Volkov, Sergei Pavlovich, and Curtis Blaydes.
Gane hasn’t fought since a split decision over Volkov in December 2024. Meanwhile, Blaydes lasted only 60 seconds against Aspinall and recently won a split decision at UFC Baku. Pavlovich, knocked out by Aspinall in 2023, faces Waldo Cortes-Acosta in August.
“We’re hopeful,” Almeida told MMA Fighting. He claims to be the only one calling out Aspinall. Volkov and Gane seem uninterested, while Pavlovich has another fight booked. Almeida’s persistence stands out.
Aspinall has mentioned Almeida as a potential opponent. Yet, the Brazilian insists no other heavyweight is as vocal about the opportunity. He’s using social media to promote the fight, hoping to get it signed.
Almeida follows Aspinall on Instagram, studying his training like homework. “I’m the one talking about him,” Almeida said, pushing for the fight to happen. He believes he’s the only one truly challenging Aspinall.
Since joining the UFC in 2022, Almeida has won eight of nine bouts, finishing all but one. Aspinall shares the same record but boasts a 100 percent finish rate. Their styles promise an exciting matchup.
“It’s going to be a great fight,” Almeida said, noting their similar styles. Aspinall’s speed and championship status are impressive, but Almeida questions his endurance. Aspinall hasn’t fought five rounds, while Almeida trains for longer.
“If I fight Tom Aspinall, I’ll take him to the third round,” Almeida plans. He acknowledges Aspinall’s experience and knows he needs a smart strategy. “When the cage closes, it’s a war. I’m ready for a war.”