Tom Aspinall steps up: UFC’s undisputed heavyweight champion ready to lead division

The UFC heavyweight division has found a new leader as Tom Aspinall was officially named the undisputed heavyweight champion following Jon Jones’ retirement. Dana White confirmed the decision, ending a seven-month period of uncertainty in the division.

Aspinall, hailing from Manchester, expressed his eagerness to energize the heavyweight scene, stating, "For you fans. It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going. An active Undisputed Champion."

Jones’ retirement comes amid personal controversies, including a recent criminal summons related to a misdemeanor charge of leaving the scene of an accident. This is not the first time Jones’ reign has been marred by such incidents; his initial UFC light heavyweight title run ended after a hit-and-run accident involving a pregnant woman.

Despite these issues, Jones’ retirement statement was optimistic, promising that "the best is yet to come" and expressing a desire to continue contributing to the sport in new ways.

With Aspinall stepping up, the UFC heavyweight division looks poised for renewed activity and competition, as fans anticipate a fresh era under the leadership of an active and undisputed champion.

Key quotes and stats:
- Dana White confirmed Aspinall’s upgrade to undisputed heavyweight champion.
- Aspinall’s statement: "It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going. An active Undisputed Champion."
- Jones’ retirement ends seven months of division uncertainty.
- Jones faced a criminal summons over a misdemeanor hit-and-run charge.

This transition marks a significant moment for the UFC heavyweight division, signaling a new chapter with Tom Aspinall at the helm.

Tom Aspinall has been named UFC’s undisputed heavyweight champion following Jon Jones’ official retirement, ending seven months of uncertainty. Aspinall declared readiness to lead the division, promising fans an active champion and a revitalized heavyweight scene.