Tom Aspinall Breaks Down How To Tackle ‘Predator’ Francis Ngannou

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall talks in detail about potentially fighting the PFL champ Francis Ngannou.

Tom Aspinall Breaks Down How To Tackle ‘Predator’ Francis Ngannou

Tom Aspinall is interested in fighting Francis Ngannou (via X)

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After reigning as the interim kingpin for nearly 590 days, Tom Aspinall was finally crowned the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion last month. The British powerhouse wasted no time in setting the tone for his reign, promising fans a more active title run with frequent defenses. Moreover, the Englishman confirmed that his first title defense is officially signed.

But there is still no official word on his next opponent. Apart from that, Aspinall recently weighed in on the future of former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, hinting at some intriguing possibilities on the horizon. Even before parting ways with the UFC in January 2023, Francis Ngannou developed a strained relationship with Dana White.

Fighter autonomy, bigger paychecks, and the right to compete in boxing bouts led to ‘The Predator’ leaving White’s MMA juggernaut and trying his luck elsewhere. Despite ongoing tensions, Ngannou has consistently expressed interest in targeting potential blockbuster fights against champions like Jon Jones and now Aspinall. Recently, in a Eurosport interview, the UK heavyweight champion addressed exciting possibilities of a future showdown with Ngannou.

I like the fight. I think that he’s very, very dangerous. I think that I’m a smart fighter with a good fight IQ, and I think I could navigate that danger well. But man, you never—this is MMA. This is heavyweight MMA at the top level. You never know until you get in there… It’s a fight that I would definitely be interested in.

Tom Aspinall via Eurosport

Ngannou was terrifyingly dangerous in his UFC prime, brutally knocking out elite opponents like Alistair Overeem, Cain Velasquez, and Stipe Miocic. His explosive power ended fights instantly, earning worldwide fame for incredible finishes, including a record-setting 20-second knockout against Jairzinho Rozenstruik. After leaving UFC, Ngannou transitioned to boxing and competed in top-tier bouts against champions like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Afterwards, Ngannou claimed the PFL heavyweight championship, destroying Renan Ferreira with a ruthless first-round knockout through ground-and-pound strikes. PFL executives revealed plans to introduce a crossover title fight, aiming to crown the world’s absolute best heavyweight across organizations. Aspinall previously downplayed Ngannou’s PFL success, arguing it lacks elite competition compared to the UFC’s premier heavyweight division roster.

Tom Aspinall confirms his first UFC heavyweight title defence 

Tom Aspinall versus Jon Jones was the most anticipated heavyweight showdown, captivating fans globally with massive excitement surrounding this matchup. Unfortunately, ‘Bones’ decided to call it a day after UFC Baku event last month. Although, he has hinted at returning for the UFC White House event, this highly awaited super fight is on indefinite hold.

Tom Aspinall is ready for his next bout
Tom Aspinall is ready for his next bout (via X)

This shocking development reignited global fan excitement, building huge anticipation before Dana White immediately rejected Jones’ return idea at the UFC 318 post-fight presser. Afterward, ‘Bones’ expressed frustration publicly, although he confirmed readiness for the White House event if necessary anytime.

Meanwhile, Aspinall has remained focused, confidently revealing personal plans for his first UFC title defense and exciting comeback later this year.

Yes (next fight is signed and finalized) it is. As far as signed, I can’t remember the last time that I physically signed a contract, they just ask me and I say yes and that’s it.

Tom Aspinall via Eurosport

The Jones versus Aspinall fight at the White House event would definitely generate massive global attention and record-breaking viewership numbers. However, a loss could harm his historic legacy, and on the occasion of America’s Independence Day, it wouldn’t look good.

Meanwhile, Aspinall has also expressed interest in a superfight against Alex Pereira, offering fans an exciting striker-versus-striker showdown across weight divisions. Aspinall has already dominated top heavyweight contenders, knocking out fighters like Sergei Pavlovich, Curtis Blaydes, and Marcin Tybura with ease.

His incredible speed and striking power made him unstoppable, finishing elite opponents quickly without allowing fights to reach championship rounds. Currently, Ciryl Gane remains the only top heavyweight contender, having avoided Aspinall’s path, making their potential clash highly anticipated.

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