Tom Aspinall Lands New Sponsorship as UFC 321 Title Defense Nears

Abu Dhabi, UAE — Undisputed UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is stacking wins outside the Octagon ahead of his blockbuster clash with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 on Yas Island’s Etihad Arena. The 6’5″ Englishman, 32, will make his first title defense since Jon Jones’ retirement created a vacancy—and he’s doing it with a fresh endorsement on his resume.

UFC Confirms: Aspinall Becomes a “Drip Water” Athlete

The UFC announced on Instagram that Aspinall is now a Drip Water athlete, rolling out a promo spot that dubs the brand “The Water of Sport.” Drip Water founded by British TV chef and musician Big Zuu in October 2023 secured a $5 million equity investment from Raya Holding in February, fueling Middle East expansion and a reported $125 million valuation. The timing aligns neatly with Aspinall’s first defense in Abu Dhabi.

A Busy Sponsorship Slate

Aspinall’s commercial portfolio has grown rapidly alongside his rise to the heavyweight throne:

• SPRIBE (March 2025): Ambassadorship with the casino-gaming software developer.

• UltraMMA: Partnership with the charity-focused organization that stages MMA and boxing events.

• Beast Pharm: Endorsement with the sports supplement company co-developed by strongman icon Eddie Hall.

The Headliner: Champion x Aspinall

Perhaps the centerpiece of his off-canvas success is a May 2025 partnership with sportswear stalwart Champion, featuring a campaign and the debut of his “Heavyweight Champion” apparel capsule an homage to the brand’s century-long athletic heritage. The collection positions Aspinall as a cross-over figure with appeal beyond fight night.

Fight Night Stakes

Aspinall’s showdown with Gane at UFC 321 marks the first stop on his reign as undisputed champ. While he didn’t dethrone a sitting champion elevated after Jones exited. Aspinall has a chance to stamp his authority on the division with a statement defense under the bright lights of Abu Dhabi.

Inside the cage, Aspinall seeks validation as the UFC’s heavyweight standard. Outside it, his growing slate of partners now headlined by Drip Water and Champion signals a star building a brand to match the belt.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with Champion, a brand with global reach and deep roots in sport,” Aspinall said. “Champion’s values reflect who I am and what I want to do in MMA. I’ve always said I believe I can transcend the sport into the mainstream.”