Tom Aspinall Open to Boxing 'Big Fights,'

“Big Fights,” Not Titles: What Aspinall Wants From Boxing

That doesn’t mean the British standout isn’t interested in boxing at all. His version of a crossover is more realistic and arguably more entertaining. “I could have a couple… not freak-show fights but big fights,” Aspinall said. “A big name or something. … I wouldn’t mind boxing an MMA fighter. I think Ngannou would be good.”

Aspinall also stressed that any talk of boxing is secondary to his responsibilities as UFC heavyweight champion. “I’ve got fights in the UFC to do first.”

Eye Injury Has Delayed His Return, But A Rematch Looms

Aspinall’s crossover curiosity comes at a time when he’s stuck on the sidelines. His first heavyweight title defense a long-awaited matchup with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 — ended almost instantly after Gane accidentally poked Aspinall in the eye, resulting in a no-contest.

Aspinall is still recovering from the injury, but early indications are that the UFC plans to run the matchup back once he’s cleared.

The Big Picture

Aspinall’s honesty separates him from the wave of MMA stars calling for improbable boxing superfights. He knows:

• He’s an elite MMA heavyweight

• He’s not becoming a boxing world champion at 33

• But he is open to big, fun crossover events especially against fellow MMA stars like Ngannou

And for fans who want spectacle without pretense, that’s probably the perfect middle ground.