Aspinall Defends Undisputed Heavyweight Title vs Gane in Abu Dhabi
Tom Aspinall, the newly crowned undisputed UFC heavyweight champion, showcased striking force in training this week as he prepares to defend his title against Ciryl Gane on October 25 in Abu Dhabi. The English fighter, elevated from interim champion after Jon Jones retired this summer, posted video footage of a training session in which a heavy bag came off its chains after a single punch, a clip that has drawn widespread attention ahead of UFC 321.
Aspinall has not fought since his July victory at UFC 304, where he defended the interim title against Curtis Blaydes. The promotion of his belt followed months of public dispute, with Jones declining to face him before ultimately vacating the championship. Aspinall will make his first defense as undisputed champion against Gane, a former interim titleholder and two-time challenger who has lost title fights to Francis Ngannou and Jones in recent years.
The bag-breaking clip renewed debate about Aspinall's raw power. Fans and fellow fighters reacted on social media, with some warning that Gane could be in trouble when he meets Aspinall in the Oct. 25 main event. The praise has been matched by veteran voices in the sport. Former UFC...