According to a prominent figure in mixed martial arts and former world title challenger, Tom Aspinall should no longer hold the position of UFC interim heavyweight champion.
Since his debut in the top mixed martial arts organization, the British fighter has consistently impressed, defeating opponents decisively, often by knockout.
Currently, Aspinall is focusing on developing `exciting` new techniques while awaiting Jon Jones to finalize a fight agreement.
However, one well-known personality within the sport believes Aspinall`s reign as interim champion should already be over.
Chael Sonnen Explains Why Tom Aspinall Should Be Stripped of His Belt
Chael Sonnen believes that if Jon Jones genuinely refuses to compete against Tom Aspinall, then the British heavyweight should absolutely be elevated to become the undisputed champion.
However, Sonnen argues that a previous statement made by Aspinall himself should result in him being relieved of his current interim title.
On his YouTube channel, `The American Gangster` noted: “Tom is the longest-reigning interim heavyweight champion in history. I would like for Tom to be elevated to undisputed champion if, in fact, Jon is refusing to fight him.”
Sonnen continued by quoting Aspinall: “Tom has said, ‘I will not defend the interim belt’. Tom has gone further to say, ‘I will not fight for any belt that isn’t undisputed’… He’s saying, ‘I am the interim champion, I am willing to compete, which if the undisputed champion is not willing to do, I then get those duties’.”
Sonnen`s core argument is that Aspinall`s stance on not defending the interim title is the reason he should be stripped of it. He concluded: “If Tom is saying, ‘I’m not going to defend it’, we take the belt back’… He should not be the interim champion. The moment he says, ‘I’m not going to defend it’, he should not be the interim champion.”
‘Jon Jones Has a Concern’… Chael Sonnen Discusses Jones`s Worry About Fighting Aspinall
Sonnen suggests that Jon Jones has a significant apprehension about facing the fighter the public is most eager to see him compete against.
The prospect of a match between Jones and Aspinall has captivated fans globally, with the MMA community highly anticipating a clash to see who would emerge victorious between the two talented athletes.
However, Jones has not yet signed the contract for the potential fight.
Sonnen speculates that he knows the reason behind Jones`s delay in agreeing to fight Aspinall.
Rupert Hartwell