Aspinall Dominating UFC Heavyweight: New King After Jones’ Retirement?

After a week off, the UFC returns to action this weekend with a heavyweight main event between Derrick Lewis and Tallison Teixeira at UFC Fight Night from Nashville, Tennessee.The billboard arrives at an opportune moment, as the news of the retirement of former heavyweight champion Jon Jones still resonates in the mixed martial arts (MMA) community.Jones, considered one of the best of all time, has decided to end his career, although the way he handled this decision has generated some uncertainty. After six months of speculation, Jones will not face Tom Aspinall, leaving a void in the sport. Although he has expressed interest in fighting at an event at the White House in 2026, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that Jones has returned to the anti-doping testing pool.While we await Jones’ next steps, the show goes on. Aspinall, who went from interim champion to undisputed, hopes to announce his first title defense soon. On the other hand, Lewis, a veteran with 10 years of experience and a fan favorite, will face Teixeira, one of the young talents in the division, who has finished his eight professional opponents in the first round.The heavyweight division is in a moment of transition after Jones’ departure. We thoroughly analyze the contenders and prospects for this weekend.

Who threatens Aspinall’s reign?

In the world of MMA, and especially in the heavyweight category, each contender represents a threat due to the knockout power they possess. Historically, this title has been difficult to defend.Currently, there are no clear rivals for Aspinall. He has already defeated three of the top six ranked fighters in the division, including Curtis Blaydes, Alexander Volkov, and Sergei Pavlovich, all in the first round. Aspinall’s record is a factor that regrets Jones’ retirement, as fans will not be able to enjoy the fight they were hoping for.Aspinall is one of the youngest heavyweights in the UFC. His dominance (seven first-round finishes in nine UFC appearances) could endure.Ciryl Gane possesses the talent and physical qualities to compete with Aspinall. If Gane reaches his full potential, we could witness a great rivalry.

What fights could revitalize the division?

Aspinall vs. Gane is a promising matchup. However, the fight that could truly revitalize the division is Aspinall vs. Alex Pereira.Alex “Poatan” Pereira.Jones moved up to heavyweight in 2023, after a long reign at light heavyweight, seeking a second belt. The UFC could boost the division with a “superfight” between Aspinall and Pereira. The problem is that Pereira, former middleweight and light heavyweight champion, is smaller and has his own business at 205 pounds.

If Lewis achieves a knockout this weekend, interest in seeing Aspinall face Lewis could arise. Although it wouldn’t be logical from a rankings perspective, it could be an attractive option. Lewis, at 40 years old, might have few fights remaining.

Will the lack of depth in heavyweight affect Aspinall’s reign?

The answer is yes. The absence of Jones, who vacated the undisputed title, impacts the perception of Aspinall’s reign.Aspinall, with his history of first-round finishes, could stand out. He will receive recognition for “retiring” Jones without the need to fight.

Will Teixeira, at 25 years old, be able to compete for the heavyweight title before 30? It’s likely, given the lack of depth in the category and the possibility of Aspinall defeating several contenders. The division needs new figures, and perhaps Teixeira will be one of them.