While patiently waiting for Jon Jones to commit to a fight, interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is actively training and enhancing aspects of his skills.
For several months, Aspinall, the interim champion, has been in a holding pattern as the undisputed king, Jones, considers his future plans.
To occupy himself, Aspinall has trained alongside the World`s Strongest Man, producing engaging content, and has also been vocal in calling out Jones.
Although he`s eager to officially begin a fight camp, the current delay isn`t entirely negative; the British fighter is using this time to refine his technique.
Aspinall Focuses on Developing New Techniques
Typically, athletes preparing for significant bouts concentrate on developing specific game plans tailored to their opponent.
However, since the fight against Jon Jones is not yet confirmed, Aspinall has the chance to focus on acquiring and perfecting new skills that could prove crucial in future matchups.
In a recent YouTube video, Aspinall explained his current approach:
“I’m just sparring to get better. I’m not sparring to prepare for a fight. So, it’s really interesting for me that I don’t have to work to a game plan in sparring. I can just practice my new techniques that I’m working on at the minute, practice new little things that I’m working on.”
He contrasted this with fight camp sparring:
“Whereas, if I’m in the build-up to a fight and I’m in a training camp, I’m just sparring for my opponent and what he does well.”
He concluded,
“Right now, I’m not within a 12, ten, or eight-week training camp, so I’m just sparring, working on things that I wanna work on, which is good.”
Chael Sonnen Speculates on Jones` Hesitation
The apparent lack of enthusiasm from Jones for a fight against Aspinall has led to growing frustration among fans.
Despite the lack of confirmation, former fighter Chael Sonnen remains hopeful the fight can happen.
Sonnen suggested there might be a path to making the highly anticipated clash between the two UFC stars a reality.
According to Sonnen, Jones reportedly “has a concern” regarding a potential fight with Aspinall.
Rupert Hartwell