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UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has been selected as the backup fighter for the UFC 309 main event between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, slated for New York City.
While this bout is widely anticipated to be a farewell for both Jones and Miocic, there's a growing interest among fans-and for Aspinall himself-in a different potential clash.
Many are hoping to see Aspinall face UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, a matchup that's already sparking excitement within the MMA community.
Last month, Pereira hinted at his interest in challenging Aspinall, a statement that instantly generated buzz about the prospective fight's potential-both as a competitive contest and a high-profile spectacle.
Known as "Honey Badger" for his relentless style, Pereira has gained strong as a crowd favorite, and the odds currently favor him in a match against Aspinall.
However, MMA analyst Chael Sonnen recently expressed a key concern about Aspinall's preparedness for the rigors of a fight against an experienced opponent like Pereira, a point that could have a significant impact on Aspinall's strategy going forward.
Sonnen questions Aspinall's stamina
Aspinall has quickly made his mark in the UFC heavyweight division, building a reputation as a fighter who finishes his opponents swiftly.
In his career, he has defeated six top contenders, each within a single round, which speaks to his power and skill. However, Chael Sonnen, one of Aspinall's most outspoken ers, shared his worries about Aspinall's limited experience in prolonged bouts.
"I have one concern with Tom, and I am one of Tom's biggest advocates, but I worry about his UFC career. He has only left the first round once. I don't love that a guy hasn't had to breathe for 15 minutes," Sonnen noted.
Sonnen further explained that, while Jon Jones and Alex Pereira have both faced tests that pushed them into later rounds, Aspinall's string of early finishes leaves questions about his endurance.
"If Aspinall is so damn good that nobody can test him, it's unfair to criticize, but for me to wonder, I have to tell you it's a concern for me," Sonnen said.
Aspinall's power and quick knockouts are indeed impressive, but Sonnen's concern is that without experience in deeper rounds, Aspinall may find himself at a disadvantage if Pereira's defense holds strong in the early stages.
and skepticism
UFC heavyweight contender Rodrigo Nascimento, though currently ranked outside the top 10, recently shared his insights on the potential clash.
A seasoned fighter in the heavyweight division, Nascimento acknowledged Pereira's capabilities but believed that Aspinall, with his powerful grappling style, might pose a unique challenge.
In an interview with MMA Fighting, Nascimento stated, "I think a grappler could be a bad fight for him in this division. Jon Jones, maybe Tom Aspinall, but I think 'Poatan' can definitely beat Tom Aspinall, and maybe Jon Jones, too."
Nascimento pointed out that Pereira's standout striking abilities make him a serious contender in the early rounds.
With the right moves, he could put either Aspinall or Jones in danger. Nascimento acknowledged the strengths of both Pereira and Jones, while noting that Pereira's explosive striking skills could tip the scales in a heavyweight fight.
The Aspinall-Pereira showdown
Aspinall's impressive first-round finishes have earned him a reputation as a "finisher" in the heavyweight division, but Sonnen's observations point to a critical aspect in MMA fighting: the ability to go the distance.
Pereira's seasoned career and varied fight experience give him an edge, especially in of endurance and tactical versatility.
If Aspinall is serious about a title shot and a possible showdown with Pereira, developing his stamina for extended fights could be essential to withstanding Pereira's tested abilities in later rounds.
As he continues to prepare for potential opponents, fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see how Aspinall hones his skills for the next level.