Din Thomas Reveals: Is the UFC “Luring” Tom Aspinall to Lead International Fight Week?

As UFC International Fight Week approaches, all eyes are on the promotion’s next major move—and Din Thomas may have just dropped a major clue. The former UFC fighter and current analyst recently suggested that the UFC could be plotting to make Tom Aspinall the headliner for this year’s highly anticipated event. With heavyweight uncertainty and Jon Jones still on the sidelines, this speculation is causing waves across the MMA community.

The Current Landscape: Jon Jones’ Delay and the Interim Conundrum

The UFC’s heavyweight division has been in limbo since Jon Jones was sidelined with an injury that canceled his fight with Stipe Miocic. That opened the door for Tom Aspinall, who captured the interim heavyweight title in a stunning performance against Sergei Pavlovich. Since then, fans have been clamoring for a Jones vs. Aspinall unification bout.

However, the UFC has remained noncommittal. Reports of internal disagreements and promotional strategy delays have frustrated both fighters and fans. That’s where Din Thomas enters the conversation. Speaking on a recent podcast appearance, he hinted that the promotion may be “luring” Aspinall to take center stage during International Fight Week, potentially without Jon Jones.

Din Thomas on the UFC’s Hidden Strategy

According to Thomas, UFC President Dana White is “a master of timing” and may be strategically holding back Jones while quietly building Aspinall’s mainstream star power. In Thomas’ words:

“They’re not just looking for a fight. They’re looking for a moment. Aspinall could be that moment this summer. Don’t be surprised if he headlines International Fight Week.”

This remark has fueled speculation that the UFC could be building toward a major title defense or a super-fight involving Aspinall during one of the biggest weekends on the MMA calendar. While some see it as a placeholder move, others believe it could be a full passing of the torch.

Why Tom Aspinall Makes Sense as a Headliner

Aspinall’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Since returning from injury, he has showcased explosive striking, elite athleticism, and marketable charisma. With his interim UFC heavyweight title, he represents a younger generation of fighters who are both elite athletes and compelling personalities.

International Fight Week has historically been home to blockbuster fights: Conor McGregor vs. Mendes, Anderson Silva vs. Sonnen, Israel Adesanya vs. Cannonier. Adding Tom Aspinall to that list wouldn’t be a step down—it would be a strategic move toward the division’s future.

Moreover, Aspinall is willing. In interviews, he has voiced his frustration with the inactivity surrounding the heavyweight title picture, even calling for the UFC to strip Jones if he’s not ready to fight. If the UFC does want to capitalize on his momentum, now is the time.

Who Could Tom Aspinall Face?

If Jon Jones remains unavailable, several potential opponents could emerge for Aspinall:

• Ciryl Gane: A rematch could make sense if Gane rebounds from recent setbacks.

• Jailton Almeida: Undefeated in the UFC and on the rise.

• Curtis Blaydes: Another strong contender who’s long been knocking on the door.

• Stipe Miocic: A legacy matchup with fan appeal, though Miocic’s status is unclear.

Each option comes with its pros and cons, but they all offer compelling storylines for a main event.

UFC’s Bigger Picture: Selling Stars, Not Just Fights

It’s no secret that the UFC often builds its brand around personalities. With Jon Jones, Conor McGregor, and Israel Adesanya each navigating layoffs or losses, the promotion needs a fresh face to sell big events. That’s why Tom Aspinall is being positioned for a bigger role.

The UFC understands the value of International Fight Week—not just as a card, but as a promotional platform. With press conferences, Hall of Fame inductions, and fan expos, it’s a celebration of everything the UFC has built. Putting Aspinall at the center of that signals intent: this is the fighter they believe in.

Fan Reactions: Split Opinions

The MMA fan base has had mixed reactions to the possibility. Some believe it’s the right move to spotlight a hungry, active champion. Others argue that any International Fight Week without Jon Jones, the reigning heavyweight champion, would be incomplete.

Social media debates have raged over whether Jones should be stripped of the title or whether Aspinall is “being used” to carry the brand in his absence. Either way, one thing is clear: Tom Aspinall is now central to the UFC’s heavyweight narrative.

Dana White’s Role and the Silent Negotiations

Dana White has remained tight-lipped about any official fight announcements involving Tom Aspinall. That silence, however, could be a strategic signal. White has a history of last-minute bombshell announcements, particularly ahead of major events.

Behind closed doors, it’s likely negotiations are underway. Din Thomas’ comments may serve as a calculated leak—testing public reaction and gauging excitement levels. UFC’s promotional tactics often involve this kind of media maneuvering.

What This Means for Jon Jones

If the UFC proceeds with Aspinall headlining International Fight Week, the implications for Jon Jones are massive. Will he be stripped? Will he retire without unifying the belt? Or will he be held in reserve for a massive return later in the year?

Jones is notoriously protective of his legacy. If sidelined, he may choose to wait for a bigger payday—or walk away altogether. Either scenario puts the spotlight squarely on Aspinall, regardless of Jones’ decision.

Conclusion: All Signs Point to Aspinall’s Moment

Din Thomas may have simply voiced what many in the MMA world are already thinking: the UFC is positioning Tom Aspinall for a major spotlight moment. Whether that means a headlining role at International Fight Week, a title defense, or even a new interim championship bout, one thing is certain—Aspinall is now one of the UFC’s most valuable assets.

As July approaches and the fight calendar fills, fans will watch closely for Dana White’s next move. The big question isn’t whether Tom Aspinall deserves the spotlight—it’s whether the UFC will finally give it to him.

Stay tuned. Because if Din Thomas is right, International Fight Week 2025 might just belong to the British heavyweight with knockout dreams and championship ambition.