The UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall continues to be one of the most exciting fighters in the division. With speed, finishing ability, and versatility, he has established himself among the top fighters in the division. Aspinall has called out undisputed heavyweight champion Jon Jones for a title unification match, but Jones’ future remains uncertain. Even though Dana White has confirmed the title unification fight, but fans are still uncertain on who Aspinall will next face in the octagon.
If Jones opts not to return and face Aspinall, there are a few guys that could be intriguing matchups that would help shape the UFC heavyweight division.
Table of Contents
Tom Aspinall vs. Alexander Volkov 2
Alexander Volkov currently has the strongest case in terms of being a potential opponent for Aspinall, as he had a four-fight win streak. He lost his last fight against Ciryl Gane via unanimous decision, but many thought that the judges’ decision was wrong. As per Volkov’s coach, UFC has assured them that they will consider Volkov ahead of Gane as a title contender.
Volkov is a well-rounded veteran with deep experience in the octagon, and has proven he’s still evolving his game after his last few performances. If a rematch between Aspinall and Volkov were made, it would have plenty of narratives to it. It would have some weight because Aspinall finished Volkov via submission in March 2022.
Alexander Volkov however is evolving his game, and with the momentum he has created, and improved striking game, it would be a fun test of Aspinall’s continued growth since their last bout.
Jeilton Almeida could be next
Another intriguing option for Aspinall is Jailton Almeida. Almeida has fast tracked through the heavyweight rankings with solid performances that display strong grappling and finishing skills. Ranked #6 in his division, Almeida has recently proposed having a tournament-style method to identify the next title challenger.
His confidence and willingness to take on fighters like Aspinall or Volkov shows he is ready for a star fight. Almeida versus Aspinall would match two high-energy fighters is something any fan should be interested in. The potential fight would be primarily based on Almeida’s ground game against Aspinall’s striking.
Ciryl Gane vs. Tom Aspinall
Ciryl Gane is still one of the highest-skilled technical strikers in the heavyweight division. Although he lost in two outings to Jon Jones and Tai Tuivasa, Gane won against Alexander Volkov via controversial unanimous decision. The former UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion carries heavy kickboxing movement styles, which makes him dangerous against anyone.
Even having turned down an interim championship match for personal matters in the past may mean he is considered a big fight in the conversation for heavyweights. Gane versus Aspinall would demonstrate elite striking and create interest in fight fans from around the globe.
Uncertain Future of Jon Jones
Jon Jones remains an undisputed heavyweight champion, which certainly makes things relevant and tough for the heavyweight division as a whole. Jones has received enough credit over time to be considered one of the greatest fighters overall of all time. However injuries and suspensions have limited his time in the octagon, especially in recent years.
He was set to meet Stipe Miocic in late 2024, but opted out due to injury and later went on to defeat Miocic at UFC 309. However, he did not fight Aspinall who was the Interim Champion. If Jones stays out or retires, Aspinall may be declared the new Undisputed Heavyweight Champion. He would then defend the title against one of the candidates mentioned above instead of unifying against Jones.
Conclusion
Tom Aspinall’s ascendance has produced renewed interest in the UFC heavyweight division, but his next opponent is strapped in uncertainty due to Jon Jones’ inactivity. Alexander Volkov becomes a rematch narrative considering Volkov’s nie. Jailton Almeida infuses some fresh energy and grappling superiority to test Aspinall’s versatility. Ciryl Gane is there for a spectacle to witness two of MMA’s best strikers displayed.
Whoever steps into the Octagon with him next, Aspinall is ready to remind people why he is one of the best heavyweights in UFC history. After these matches, fans can’t wait for an answer to simplicity of observing the UFC heavyweight division evolve into one of MMA’s most compelling landscapes.
REDDAVENI SAISNEHA 
Sachin Singh