As expected, the grappling session between interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and UK influencer Angry Ginge unfolded predictably.
Tom Aspinall continues to target a fight against lineal UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones for the undisputed title. However, with negotiations currently uncertain, Aspinall stays active in the gym, recently hosting one of the UK`s largest content creators.
Aspinall`s last fight was defending his interim heavyweight belt against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 in July. After this defense, he refocused on challenging the winner of Jones vs. Stipe Miocic for the undisputed championship.
Jon Jones defeated Stipe Miocic to retain the lineal heavyweight championship in his first title defense in a long time. Jones then indicated that negotiations with the UFC and Aspinall for a potential unification bout were underway.
Aspinall Challenges Angry Ginge During Grappling Drill
Aspinall invited the UK influencer, Angry Ginge, to his gym to teach him some basics of MMA. As a top UFC fighter, Aspinall is a great source of knowledge for both striking and grappling.
The session began with Aspinall providing a basic boxing lesson. Aspinall, known for knockout wins over fighters like Serghei Spivac, Serghei Pavlovich, and Marcin Tybura, showed Ginge fundamental stance, technique, and pad work. Ginge appeared to be an eager student.
However, things changed significantly once the session moved to the ground.
Aspinall challenged Ginge to control him from the full-mount position, but the influencer`s attempt for a memorable moment failed completely.
Next, Aspinall started a different grappling exchange from side-mount and dared Ginge to hit him as hard as he could with ground strikes while trying to escape.
As expected, Aspinall easily controlled the situation, giving Ginge a clear demonstration of the difficulty and grind of MMA. The grappling segment was part of a video demonstrating the training.
Uncertainty Surrounds Tom Aspinall vs. Jon Jones Title Fight
Aspinall`s potential bout with Jones recently faced uncertainty. Jones hinted at retirement during a recent FaceTime call with another fighter, stating `I`m done` when asked about his future in fighting.
UFC CEO Dana White appears `relaxed` regarding negotiations for the Jones vs. Aspinall fight. However, White hasn`t ruled out stripping Jones of the title if talks stall, which would be a disappointing outcome for Aspinall after his long wait.
Regardless of whether he faces Jones or another top contender, Aspinall is expected to compete for the undisputed championship later this year. For Jones, his legendary career in the Octagon might be approaching its conclusion.
Percy Harlow