Tom Aspinall has explained his decision to hold his upcoming UFC heavyweight title defense in Abu Dhabi instead of Las Vegas, citing travel convenience and financial considerations. This insight comes as the UK contender prepares to face Ciryl Gane in a bout that has generated significant attention among MMA fans worldwide.
Daniel Cormier Raises Concerns Over Charles Oliveira’s Swift Return
Daniel Cormier recently expressed apprehension about Charles Oliveira’s choice to return to the octagon shortly after suffering a knockout defeat to Ilia Topuria. Given Oliveira’s quick scheduling for a fight against Rafael Fiziev, Cormier questioned whether this hurried comeback could jeopardize Oliveira’s long-term health and career.
Drawing from his own experience following a knockout loss to Jon Jones in 2017, Cormier emphasized the necessity of ample recovery time before returning to competition. He shared on his YouTube channel:
”I saw yesterday or couple days ago a fight announcement for Charles Oliveira versus Rafael Fiziev… But then you start to digest the idea that Charles Oliveira last month got knocked out bad by Ilia Topuria. And everybody likes Charles Oliveira. We all do… But then you wonder why so soon?”
—Daniel Cormier, Former UFC Champion
“I remember in 2017, I fought Jon Jones, I got knocked out in Anaheim. I got a fight offer right after, and I just said, ‘Nah, I need to let my brain heal. I’ve got to let my mind settle after going out like that.’ I knew that for me, to go back and fight that soon, it would not have gone well. So I waited to make sure that I was healthy, and that my brain was back OK before I stepped back into the octagon.”
—Daniel Cormier, Former UFC Champion
Why Tom Aspinall Selected Abu Dhabi for His UFC 321 Title Bout
Tom Aspinall revealed that the choice of Abu Dhabi for his title fight against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 was strategic, balancing logistical ease with financial favorability. He noted that traveling to Las Vegas involves long flights from the UK, extensive time differences, and higher tax implications, all of which impact fighters and their teams.
In a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Aspinall remarked:
“Absolutely love Vegas as you know, the problem with Vegas is it is so far away from the UK. We’re talking like 16 minimum hours traveling, plus an eight hour time difference. So that means you’ve got to leave home to at least weeks before plus American taxes on top of it like I would rather fight in Abu Dhabi, which is much closer, much less travel time, three hours difference from the UK, the taxes are a lot lower. I fought in Vegas a times as well, but I fought in Abu Dhabi a few times. And yeah, it’s just a lot more accessible for myself, my opponent and European fans, which is great.”
—Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight Contender
This decision highlights how fighters weigh not only the prestige of locations but also practical factors that influence performance and fan engagement. Abu Dhabi’s proximity to Europe and more favorable conditions have made it a preferred venue for Aspinall and others within the MMA community.
Conor McGregor Ends Era as UFC Pay-Per-View Headliner
Meanwhile, Conor McGregor has announced his departure from the UFC’s pay-per-view scene following the organization’s new broadcasting partnership with Paramount. McGregor, known for headlining eight of the highest-grossing PPV events and generating over $120 million in revenue, marked the end of this chapter with a social media post.
He thanked fans in a succinct message, stating:
Goodbye UFC PPV! Proud to serve as King.
—Conor McGregor, UFC Fighter
This shift signals a new era in UFC broadcasting, potentially changing how fans access and engage with major fights. McGregor’s farewell underscores the closing of a significant chapter in the promotion’s history while setting the stage for future developments in MMA coverage.
Implications of These Developments in MMA
Tom Aspinall’s preference for Abu Dhabi over Las Vegas exemplifies how fighters prioritize well-being and logistical advantages when selecting venues, which may influence future UFC event planning. Daniel Cormier’s cautionary perspective on rapidly returning fighters serves as a reminder of the physical risks involved in MMA, emphasizing athlete health over quick comebacks.
Conor McGregor’s exit from the PPV format reflects evolving industry dynamics, as broadcast deals reshape fan experiences and fighter visibility. Together, these stories highlight ongoing transitions within MMA where travel, health, and media landscapes are crucial factors impacting fighters and the sport’s trajectory.