Retroactively Recognize Tom Aspinall’s Reign as UFC Heavyweight Champion Starting After UFC 309

Tom Aspinall has done everything required of a champion in the UFC heavyweight division. Over the last 588 days (as of June 21, 2025) as interim champion, he stepped up on short notice to claim the interim title with a first-round knockout of Sergei Pavlovich and defended it in dominant fashion against Curtis Blaydes. Yet, during this time—with Jon Jones sidelined and eventually retiring—the UFC failed to give Aspinall the recognition he rightfully earned as undisputed champion.

This is not just about Aspinall—it’s about fairness for him, the fans, and the history of the sport. Jon Jones fought only twice after moving to heavyweight before retiring, yet he held onto the title for months without facing the most dangerous contender, Aspinall. Jones then retired on June 21, 2025, after dragging out what should have been an immediate transition. Had he retired right after his fight with Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 (November 11, 2024), Aspinall would have been elevated to undisputed champion on that very date—seven months ago. Instead, Aspinall remained interim champion while waiting in limbo, forced to defend a placeholder title he had already earned the right to graduate from. This robbed Aspinall of not just time, but historic recognition for his reign as the rightful champion.

The stakes are clear: if we fail to act, Jon Jones’s reign will be falsely remembered as lasting 840 days—one of the longest in heavyweight history—even though it ended without him facing the true champion. Meanwhile, Aspinall’s record fails to reflect the dominance he showed during his reign. Retroactively marking Aspinall’s undisputed reign from the moment UFC 309 ended restores fairness and properly honors his position in heavyweight history. This correction also preserves the integrity of championship transitions, ensuring future champions and fans alike are treated with respect for the competitive nature of the sport.

Now is the time to act. With Jones’s retirement confirmed and Aspinall finally promoted to undisputed champion, the UFC heavyweight division has clarity—but the historical record does not. Aspinall proved he deserved the belt months ago, and recognizing his title retroactively ensures the UFC honors its champions without distorting history. As fans, we love this sport for its fairness and champion transitions that define true greatness. Let’s make sure Tom Aspinall’s greatness is rightfully cemented in the books.