Tom Aspinall is set to return at UFC 304, as Dana White announced on Thursday. He’ll be defending his interim heavyweight title against Curtis Blaydes. This comes after Jon Jones reportedly declined Aspinall’s challenge to fight in January. Since then, Tom Aspinall has relentlessly pursued a fight with Jon Jones, calling him out both publically on Social media and through direct messages. However, Jones has remained elusive, failing to provide a definitive answer.

Aspinall has voiced his frustration, comparing Jones to a politician who avoids his statements. He further accuses “Bones” of deflecting challenges but focusing on his past accomplishments rather than engaging in the present opportunity. But now, it seems “The Brit” has shifted his focus from “Bones” to his upcoming title defense against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304. Interestingly, in a recent interview, Aspinall revealed why Jon Jones remains a hero to him, despite the unanswered challenge.

Tom Aspinall Sets Rivalry Aside with Jon Jones

In a recent interview with YouTuber Costa, Tom Aspinal discussed the fighters who inspired him through his MMA journey. When Costa asked him to name his inspiration. Aspinall readily replied, “Oh, loads.GSP, Jon Jones, Michael Bisping, BJ Penn, Mark Coleman. There are so many, you know, spanning across generations. There are no fighters that I don’t look up to really, but those are just the ones that popped into my mind just now.”

Intrigued by Aspinall’s mention of Jon Jones, the show host couldn’t resist a smile. He pressed on, asking, “Which specific fight continues to motivate you and inspire your desire to compete in the UFC? “Whose fight was it.” He paused and replied, “I think GSP is the ultimate martial artist in my opinion. I just think he’s a great guy as well, and I just love his style and what he’s all about.”

Meanwhile, he also emphasized that he always aspired to be like GSP, a well-rounded fighter and athlete. That’s the ideal he strives for, a perfect blend of both skill sets. Even GSP himself is touched by being an inspiration for Tom Aspinall. In fact, before Aspinall’s fight with Sergei Pavlovich, GSP sent him a motivational video message.

GSP’s Good Luck Message to Aspinall Before Big Fight

At UFC 295, Tom Aspinall found himself facing Sergei Pavlovich in a fight neither man anticipated. This unexpected opportunity arose due to Jon Jones’s sudden withdrawal. “The Brit” was riding high after his impressive victory over Marcin Tybura the previous summer.

following this surprise matchup,  Aspinall, the heavyweight contender, received a wave of well-wishes from his fellow, Among the messages of support were notable names like celebrity chef Gordan Ramsay and the Legendary Georges St-Pierre.

Indeed “Rush” boasts a wealth of experience in a championship bout, making him an ideal veteran for young fighters seeking advice. To motivate Aspinall before his UFC 295 fight. GSP delivered a passionate speech in a video message. His words were powerful: “There’s no courage without fear! You lead the dance, fight your fight, have no regrets, and leave everything out there! Best of luck.”

Now Tom Aspinall is ready to face Curtis Blaydes in the upcoming bout. Will he need another blessing from the MMA G.O.A.T, GSP again? Stay tuned for me!