TOM ASPINALL has broken his silence following his elevation to undisputed UFC heavyweight champion.
The Wigan warrior was bumped up from interim to undisputed king of the heavyweights early on Sunday morning following Jon Jones’ retirement from mixed martial arts.
GETTYTom Aspinall is the new UFC heavyweight champion[/caption]
GETTYThe Wigan warrior has been elevated from his interim position after Jon Jones’ retriement[/caption]
GETTYAspinall, 31, took to social media to break his silence on his elevation[/caption]
And it didn’t take long for the 31-year-old to react to the news of his new position, which he responded to by making a vow to fight fans around the world.
He wrote on Instagram: “For you fans, it’s time to get this heavyweight division going.
“An active undisputed champion.”
Dana White revealed Jones’ retirement to the world following the UFC Baku post-fight press conference.
He said: “Jon Jones called us last night and retired.
“Jon Jones is officially retired and Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.”
And moments later, Jones, who declined a multi-million-pound payday to unify the belts against Aspinall, took to X to confirm he has indeed brought the curtain down on his Hall-of-Fame, but controversial, career.
He wrote on X: “Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC.
“This decision comes after a lot of reflection, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve experienced over the years.
“From the first time I stepped into the Octagon, my goal was to push the boundaries of what was possible in this sport.
“Becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending my title against some of the best fighters in the world, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans across the globe—these are memories I’ll cherish forever.
“I’ve faced incredible highs and some tough lows, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger, both as a fighter and as a person.
“I want to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my family, coaches, teammates, and all the fans who have stood by me through every chapter.
“Your unwavering support and belief in me have been my foundation.
It’s time to get this heavyweight division going.
Tom Aspinall
“To my fellow fighters, thank you for bringing out the best in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and outside the cage.
“As I close this chapter of my life, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges ahead.
“MMA will always be a part of who I am, and I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways.
“Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come.”
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