Tom Aspinall‘s upcoming fight against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 is crucial for solidifying his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion, as a loss could severely damage the division’s reputation and diminish interest, especially with Jon Jones watching closely.
When Jon Jones briefly retired, Tom Aspinall was promoted to undisputed heavyweight champion, with his first title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. This fight, while not as monumental as a potential Jones matchup, gives Aspinall a chance to solidify his status and lead the division forward. But what if he loses to Gane after all the hype?
UFC legend Matt Brown argues that Aspinall losing would be catastrophic for a division already on shaky ground. "The heavyweight division is on the line," Brown said on The Fighter vs. The Writer. If Gane wins, the division could lose respect. Even if Aspinall struggles in a close fight, the division’s reputation is at stake.
Brown insists Aspinall must prove he’s the heavyweight to beat. Losing to Gane would significantly damage Aspinall’s standing. It’s tough to argue with Brown, considering Aspinall has already defeated three of the top five contenders, with Gane next on the list.
Beyond the top five, there aren’t any rising stars. Waldo Cortes-Acosta has some momentum, but he’s not gaining much attention. Aspinall is the best heavyweight right now, but a loss to Gane would change perceptions.
Aspinall losing could also end any hope of facing Jones, who plans to return at the UFC White House card in 2026. Brown believes Aspinall can’t just win; he has to dominate Gane. "How he beats Gane matters," Brown explained. If it’s a close fight, Jones will be watching, waiting for Aspinall to slip.
Jones became champion by defeating Gane in just over two minutes. Aspinall’s performance will inevitably be compared to that. It’s an unfair comparison, but it adds pressure on Aspinall.
"This is the situation Jon wanted," Brown said. "He beat Gane quickly and stepped away. What can you do, Tom?" It’s hard to replicate such a quick victory, but Jones did it, and now Aspinall faces the challenge.
Even if Jones isn’t the ultimate goal, Brown wonders about the division’s interest if Aspinall loses. It could lead to new contenders, but Aspinall might just get a rematch, which might not draw much interest.
"If Tom loses, his only option is a rematch," Brown said. "How many people will care about that?" The aura around Aspinall would be broken, diminishing interest in another fight with Gane.
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