UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall admitted that he would never agree to fight the division’s ninth-ranked contender Ante Delija.
Tom Aspinall on ShxtsnGigs podcast
My friend [Ante Delija] just got his first win in the UFC, and he’s in the top 10. He’s potentially 2-3 wins away from a title shot. If I’d never won a title, I would feel like we would have to fight because that’s my dream. But now I’ve done it, I’d be like, I’ll vacate it and he can have his time. I wouldn’t fight him - that’s my guy. I’ve won the title, I’ve done that, and I’ve got a few more in me before he’s gonna be up there anyway.
Recall that on October 25 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, during UFC 321, Aspinall will defend his title against Ciryl Gane.
Aspinall last entered the octagon against Curtis Blaydes in July 2024 at UFC 304, winning by first-round knockout. His professional record is 15 wins and three losses.
On November 2 in Las Vegas, USA, at UFC Vegas 110, Ante Delija will face Waldo Cortes-Acosta.
Delija debuted in the UFC in September 2025, knocking out Marcin Tybura in the first round. His record stands at 26 wins and six losses.
