Tom Aspinall recounted the surprising moment he discovered he had become the UFC heavyweight champion following Jon Jones’ retirement. This revelation came late one evening after a casual dinner with his wife and friends, as Aspinall was unwinding at home.
After arriving home around 10 p.m., Aspinall took a shower and was preparing for bed when his phone suddenly began ringing nonstop, catching him off guard.
Aspinall Describes His Late-Night Phone Calls
My phone started ringing. It was my media guy, Charlie. I thought, ‘Why is Charlie calling me at midnight? What’s going on?’
—Tom Aspinall
I answered and said, ‘What’s up?’ — you don’t really greet someone in the U.K by saying what’s up; What’s up is more of a question like, is earthing OK?
—Tom Aspinall
Charlie informed Aspinall that Dana White had just announced him as the new UFC heavyweight champion, a message Aspinall initially found hard to believe. Shortly after hanging up, Aspinall received a call from Hunter Campbell, during which he could hear Dana White’s ongoing press conference in the background.
He told me, ‘Dana just announced that you’re the champion.’ I was like, ‘What? No way.’ We talked for a bit, and after I hung up, Hunter Campbell called me right away,
—Tom Aspinall
As soon as he called, I could hear Dana’s press conference going on in the background.
—Tom Aspinall
At first, I thought Hunter had accidentally pocket-dialed me because it was so loud, like he was in the same room as Dana,
—Tom Aspinall
Hunter confirmed the announcement officially, congratulating Aspinall and promising further conversations in the following week.
Aspinall’s Tribute to Jon Jones Following Retirement
Jon Jones’ unexpected decision to retire on June 21 handed Aspinall the undisputed UFC heavyweight title. Reflecting on Jones’ legendary career, Aspinall shared his respect and well wishes for the former champion during an appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast.
I think he’s had an amazing career, and I think he should enjoy the rest of his life,
—Tom Aspinall
If he truly feels like he’s done enough—which he keeps saying that he does—he will be at peace. He doesn’t need me or anyone else to tell him how good he’s done. He’ll know it himself. I hope that he’s enjoying his life, he’s enjoying his family, and that he’s celebrating his career, because it’s been amazing.
—Tom Aspinall
The Significance of Aspinall’s Rise to Heavyweight Champion
Tom Aspinall UFC heavyweight champion status marks a major milestone in his career and brings a fresh face to the division after Jon Jones’ reign. This sudden advancement presents Aspinall with both new pressures and opportunities to define his legacy in the sport. The MMA community will closely watch his upcoming defenses as he settles into the role left open by one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.
With key figures like Dana White and Hunter Campbell endorsing his new position, Aspinall’s ascent could reshape the heavyweight landscape, generating renewed excitement among fans and competitors alike.