Tom Aspinall

Thomas Paul Aspinall (born 11 April 1993) is an English professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Heavyweight division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). As of 25 July 2023, he is #4 in the UFC heavyweight rankings. Background Aspinall followed his father's footsteps by beginning to train martial arts at the age of seven at the Leigh Self Defence Studio, Leigh, Greater Manchester, where he trained in Ju Jitsu. After also training wrestling and boxing, Aspinall transitioned to Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He has won the British Open in Brazilian jiu-jitsu in all belt classes except black belt. After his father became the jiu-jitsu instructor of Team Kaobon, Aspinall grew interested in mixed martial arts and eventually transitioned into the sport. In the year after completing school at age 16, Aspinall grew from to , causing intense growing pains. Mixed martial arts career Early career Aspinall signed a five-fight contract with Cage Warriors after 2.5-year hiatus from professional mixed martial arts. Aspinall was offered a contract by the Ultimate Fighting Championship also, but did not feel ready for the organization and subsequently turned it down. After two fast finishes in Cage Warriors he eventually signed to the UFC.