Heavyweights in MMA are usually known for incredible power, crazy knockouts, and tear-inducing behind-the-scenes stories. However, speed and high-level skill isn’t one of them; even now and then, it is hard to find an MMA fighter in the top level of the UFC with the same level of athleticism as top NFL players. However, Tom Aspinall happens to be an exception, and because of his athletic gifts, we believe that he is a championship-level fighter that you should have your eyes on.
Tom Aspinall, once a sparring partner for the WBC Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury, displays remarkable hand speed and boxing technique partially due to his time with Fury’s team. He debuted as a boxer with preparation in the heavyweight division, showcasing swift hand speed and effective techniques. He often applies fakes, switches, and maintains pressure with long-range quick one-twos from the early stages of the match. Aspinall combines kicks, punches, and counter-check hooks, displaying versatility in his striking.
Tom Aspinall, once a sparring partner for Tyson Fury, displayed remarkable hand speed and boxing technique during his time with Fury’s team. He debuted as a boxer with preparation in the heavyweight division, showcasing swift hand speed and effective techniques. He often applies fakes, switches, and maintains pressure with long-range quick one-twos from the early stages of the match. Aspinall combines kicks, punches, and counter-check hooks, displaying versatility in his striking.
Utilizing short leg kicks, body kicks, and even head kicks, Aspinall demonstrated improved kick usage after knee surgery, showing significant power. Despite facing powerful opponents like Pavlovich, Aspinall’s kicks caused visible effects. He is adept at delivering surprise elbow strikes, swiftly creating opportunities for follow-up combinations or ground-and-pound finishes.
Beyond hand speed, Aspinall’s footwork and evasion in the heavyweight division resemble those of lighter weight classes. His agile steps and swaying evasion are trademark characteristics. This speed not only aids in striking but also provides advantages in takedowns, as seen in the Arlovski fight, where he successfully executed a double leg takedown.
Aspinall possesses a well-rounded skill set, including effective ground skills. He actively utilizes ground-and-pound from the top position, seamlessly passing opponents’ guards and finishing with submissions. His punch power, derived from both speed and size, is very notable as well.
However, he has shown vulnerability to counters, particularly evident in the Volkov fight, where he took a counterpunch while engaging in striking exchanges. It remains to be seen how he handles matchups against faster opponents who are power punchers as well like Francis Ngannou or Jairzinho Rozenstruik.
Aspinall’s speed has drawn comparisons to Cyril Gane, but the difference lies in their defensive techniques. While Gane employs various defensive methods, Aspinall relies more on head movement and swaying, which can be viewed as bold but potentially risky. However, Aspinall’s proficiency in the grappling category is far beyond Gane’s, giving him an advantage in a potential matchup.
In summary, Aspinall is a fast and versatile heavyweight fighter with an arsenal of striking options and solid ground skills. While he has primarily finished fights in the early rounds, questions remain about his endurance and takedown defense. His recent knee surgery and subsequent performance improvements showcase his dedication to the sport. Aspinall’s 2.0 version, as he calls it, continues to impress, making him a rising force in the heavyweight division.
StrikeSaga 
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