Tom Aspinall had previously warned fans that his important announcement today wasn`t related to fight news, but that didn`t stop some social media users from expressing their dissatisfaction.
The interim UFC heavyweight champion is engaged in a never-ending cat-and-mouse game with undisputed champion Jon Jones, aiming for a superfight to unify the titles. However, that fight seems further away than ever.
This evening, after a long anticipation, he announced a long-term partnership with the sportswear brand Champion and the launch of his signature collection. He even expressed some optimism regarding his pursuit of the undisputed title, but it wasn`t enough for disappointed fans.
Tom Aspinall Teases Undisputed Title Fight in Champion Sportswear Line Announcement
Tom Aspinall announced today not a fight, but a significant new endorsement deal, including a signature sportswear line with Champion. This deal elevates him further into the mainstream, allowing him to work with a major brand outside standard UFC agreements.
He even hinted at news of a unification bout this year, stating in promotional materials: “This game tests everything: your body, your mind, your patience.” He was then quoted as saying: “This year is the year of the undisputed champion,” suggesting a possible title unification at some point this year.
“I`m thrilled to be partnering with Champion, a brand with global reach and deep roots in sport,” Aspinall said in a press release. “Champion`s values truly reflect who I am and what I want to achieve in MMA.
“I`ve always said I believe in my ability to transcend the sport into the mainstream. And we`re not just creating gear – we`re making apparel that works for fighters and inspires the next generation. This couldn`t have happened at a better time.
“This year is the year of the true undisputed champion. Someone who stays true to themselves, is dedicated to the sport, never says no to a fight, and connects with those who matter: the fans.”
Fans Express Disappointment with Tom Aspinall`s Announcement
Before his big announcement at 6 PM British time, Aspinall repeatedly reminded fans on his Instagram stories that the UFC announces fights, not him. He wrote his own message and shared several comments he had made in recent days.
“As I said when it was first posted, I DO NOT ANNOUNCE MY FIGHT NEWS,” he wrote alongside a screenshot of a comment that read: “Guys, the UFC announces my fights, not me.”
He then posted another screenshot where he directly told the TNT Sports UFC account: “Guys. It`s not fight news.” He then added another comment, concluding: “I have said multiple times. THIS IS NOT A FIGHT ANNOUNCEMENT. I wish it was.”
None of this appeased the upset fans, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to write comments like “Nah man. This ain`t it,” and “We cannot be serious.” Others insisted he should provoke Jones more, adding: “He`s not talking enough trash to Jones. Aspinall sounds like a crazy ex who wants attention instead of selling a fight.”
Percy Harlow