Tom Aspinall Fumes Over Holding ‘Unwanted’ UFC Record: “I’m Not Proud of That”

UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall breaks a decade-long record while waiting for Jon Jones and the undisputed title fight.

Tom Aspinall Fumes Over Holding ‘Unwanted’ UFC Record: “I’m Not Proud of That”

Tom Aspinall doesn't like his new record (via Imago)

Records symbolize greatness, yet some feel more like burdens, and Tom Aspinall‘s interim reign is becoming that kind of historic milestone now. While holding the interim title, Tom Aspinall still waits endlessly for Jon Jones, a delay that feels unjust and frustratingly prolonged. He recently broke the record for longest interim UFC heavyweight champion, a feat he never aspired to achieve or celebrate.

Aspinall claimed the UFC interim belt at UFC 295, brutally knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in a powerful and unforgettable performance. Over 535 days have passed since that fight, yet he still hasn’t challenged for the undisputed UFC heavyweight title belt. This delay marks a UFC record, but Aspinall feels no pride but only growing frustration, as seen in his latest video.

That is bullsh*t. That’s not something that I wanted. I’m not proud of that one. The interim title is nice. But the longest-reigning one? I obviously wanted to contend for the undisputed in the time that I’ve been interim.

Tom Aspinall via his YouTube channel 

Before Aspinall, Renan Barao held the record, setting it during Dominick Cruz’s injury-related absence from the bantamweight title scene. The Brazilian defeated Urijah Faber for an interim belt, and defended it twice during a dominant and technically impressive 534-day reign. In January 2014, Barao was promoted to undisputed champion status, officially replacing the sidelined Cruz after an extended injury layoff.

Similarly, Aspinall defended his interim title against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304, securing a knockout win. Since then, nearly a year of inactivity has passed, drawing widespread criticism from fight fans frustrated with the ongoing delay. Many blame the UFC’s poor matchmaking strategy, arguing it wastes Aspinall’s prime years and holds the division’s momentum.

On top of that, many fans blame Jon Jones for continuously delaying contract agreements and stalling the heavyweight title unification. Recently, Aspinall’s father publicly accused ‘Bones’ of running away and intentionally wasting everyone’s time. Some fans have called for the UFC to strip Jones of his belt due to prolonged inactivity and avoidable postponements.

Jon Jones is doing everything except fighting Tom Aspinall 

Jon Jones has been in the fight game for years and is considered the most accomplished fighter in MMA history. He holds the record for most title defenses and has consistently dealt with intense public scrutiny throughout his legendary career. Therefore, the recent criticism appears meaningless to ‘Bones,’ as he continues operating on his own terms without much concern.

Jon Jones parties in Thailand and avoids Tom Aspinall
Jon Jones parties in Thailand and avoids Tom Aspinall (via X)

Jones was recently spotted in Thailand filming with Nate Diaz for ALF Reality, a Russian version of the TUF series. Both fighters are serving as celebrity coaches and appeared to be enjoying themselves during the show’s production sessions. Additionally, footage surfaced showing Jones riding a scooter, allegedly drunk, raising eyebrows and stirring more controversy among fight fans.

Previously, Jones avoided fighting Tom Aspinall by prioritizing a legacy bout with Stipe Miocic, dismissing other contenders in the division. After defeating Miocic at UFC 309, Jones began shifting attention toward a potential super fight against former champion Alex Pereira. However, Pereira’s title loss to Magomed Ankalaev removed that option, leaving Jones with no alternative but to face the UK standout.

However, instead of signing the contract, Jones complicated negotiations by demanding an enormous $30 million purse to face Aspinall. He also stated he needed a minimum of six months to prepare, citing the challenge Aspinall poses as justification. Since then, there have been no meaningful updates, leaving fight fans frustrated with the ongoing delay and lack of clarity.

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