Tom Aspinall / Getty Images

‘The UFC Ain’t Paying That Type of Money’ Team Aspinall Suggests Boxing Temptation Is Hard to Ignore

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 8:23 PM ET

Pressure builds as the heavyweight champion prepares for his October return in Abu Dhabi

Fresh off being elevated to full heavyweight champion, Tom Aspinall is back in camp with the biggest target on his back. The English powerhouse is preparing for his first official title defense after Jon Jones’ retirement left the division wide open. His return comes October 25 in Abu Dhabi against Ciryl Gane, a matchup that will answer key questions about Aspinall’s readiness after a lengthy layoff. Having not stepped inside the Octagon since July 2024, the champion will need to shake off any signs of rust quickly.

Adding to the intrigue, Aspinall’s father and longtime coach, Andy Aspinall, recently voiced his perspective on what lies ahead.

Speaking on Tom’s official YouTube channel, Andy pushed the idea of keeping his son active after the downtime, but he didn’t stop there. 'If he’s not bothered by the money,' Andy began, before cutting in with a clear message: 'I’d love him to have a highly paid boxing match for the money. The money is there, and I don’t see why somebody as talented as Tom shouldn’t have a piece of that money.'

Andy noted the staggering gap between boxing paydays and UFC salaries, adding that Tom is pulling in just a fraction of what other elite athletes earn despite being among the very best at what he does. Some interpreted the comments as more than just a father’s thoughts — perhaps a pointed message directed at the UFC.

The pressure is on heading into October, not just for the fight itself, but for what may follow. Future paydays loom large, and whispers suggest numbers may already have been floated to Team Aspinall. If true, it could explain why the conversation about crossing over to boxing is heating up at just the right time.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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