Thomas Paul Aspinall Bio
Thomas Paul Aspinall is an English professional mixed martial artist competing in the Heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is the current UFC Heavyweight Champion, known for his rapid finishing ability and holding the UFC record for the shortest average fight time at two minutes and eighteen seconds.
Early Life and Background
Thomas Paul Aspinall was born on April 11, 1993, in Salford, England. He began training in martial arts at the age of seven at the Leigh Self Defence Studio, following in the footsteps of his father, Andy. Aspinall initially trained in catch wrestling and boxing before transitioning to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, where he won the British Open in all belt classes except black belt. During his late teens, he experienced a significant growth spurt, growing from 5 feet 8 inches to 6 feet 5 inches, which influenced his athletic development.
His father became a jiu-jitsu instructor at Team Kaobon, which further inspired Aspinall’s interest in mixed martial arts. He grew up in Atherton, Greater Manchester, and currently resides in Salford, Lancashire, England.
Path to MMA
Aspinall had his first amateur fight at age 18, compiling an undefeated amateur record of nine wins, mostly by knockout or submission. He made his professional debut at MMA Versus UK and competed in BAMMA and Full Contact Contender, achieving a record of 4 wins and 2 losses in BAMMA. After a 2.5-year hiatus, he signed a five-fight contract with Cage Warriors, where he secured two quick finishes before signing with the UFC.
Initially offered a UFC contract earlier, Aspinall declined, feeling unprepared for the organization. His performances in Cage Warriors demonstrated his readiness, leading to his eventual UFC debut.
Thomas Paul Aspinall Career
Early Career (2014–2019)
Aspinall began his professional MMA career in 2014. He fought in regional promotions such as BAMMA and Full Contact Contender, where he developed his skills and gained experience. His early career was marked by a strong finishing ability, with most victories coming by knockout or submission.
During this period, Aspinall trained under Team Kaobon, benefiting from his father’s coaching and the gym’s resources. His growth and skill development positioned him for entry into larger promotions.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2020–Present)
Thomas Aspinall made his UFC debut on July 25, 2020, against Jake Collier, winning by technical knockout in the first round and earning the Performance of the Night award. He continued to impress with victories over Alan Baudot and former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski, the latter by submission, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and earning additional Performance of the Night bonuses.
In 2021, Aspinall defeated Serghei Spivac and Alexander Volkov, both by first-round finishes, further establishing himself as a top contender. Despite a setback in 2022 with a knee injury loss to Curtis Blaydes, he returned in 2023 with a swift TKO win over Marcin Tybura and captured the Interim UFC Heavyweight Championship by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in just over a minute.
He successfully defended his interim title against Curtis Blaydes in a rematch at UFC 304 in July 2024, winning by knockout in the first round and earning a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus. Following Jon Jones’ retirement announcement in June 2025, Aspinall was promoted to undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion.
Team Kaobon Era (2014–Present)
Aspinall has trained with Team Kaobon throughout his professional career, benefiting from the guidance of his father and the gym’s expertise. The team has supported his development into a dominant heavyweight fighter known for quick finishes and technical proficiency.
Driving Style and Strengths
Aspinall is recognized for his aggressive and efficient fighting style, combining striking power with technical grappling. His Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt skills complement his knockout ability, allowing him to finish fights quickly both on the feet and on the ground. His reach and height advantage contribute to his striking effectiveness.
Notable Events and Milestones
Aspinall holds the UFC record for the shortest average fight time at two minutes and eighteen seconds. He has earned multiple Performance of the Night awards and secured the UFC Interim Heavyweight Championship with a first-round knockout. His promotion to undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion in 2025 marks a significant milestone in his career.
Thomas Paul Aspinall Career Wins
Thomas Aspinall has amassed a professional MMA record of 15 wins and 3 losses, with one no contest. His victories include a mix of knockouts, submissions, and technical knockouts, demonstrating his versatility and finishing ability.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Highlights
In the UFC, Aspinall has secured eight wins, six of which ended by the halfway point of the first round. His first UFC win was a technical knockout against Jake Collier in 2020. His most recent notable win was the knockout of Sergei Pavlovich to claim the Interim UFC Heavyweight Championship in 2023. Aspinall has consistently earned Performance of the Night bonuses for his dynamic finishes.
Other Wins & Performances
Prior to joining the UFC, Aspinall competed in BAMMA, Full Contact Contender, and Cage Warriors, where he demonstrated his finishing prowess and built a strong professional record that paved the way for his UFC career.
Thomas Paul Aspinall Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Thomas Aspinall is the son of Andy and Tracey Aspinall. His father played a significant role in his martial arts training and career development, serving as a jiu-jitsu instructor at Team Kaobon.
Personal Life
Aspinall is married to Justyna, his Polish wife, and they have three sons, including twins born in 2020 and another son born in 2023. He speaks some Polish and feels a strong connection to Poland through his family.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Thomas Aspinall continued to solidify his status as the UFC Heavyweight Champion. He defended his interim title successfully and was promoted to undisputed champion following Jon Jones’ retirement. Aspinall’s performances have been marked by quick finishes and dominant displays, maintaining momentum in the heavyweight division. His partnership with Team Kaobon remains strong as he prepares for upcoming title defenses and high-profile bouts.