UFC President Dana White has sent shockwaves through the MMA world with revelations that could dramatically reshape the heavyweight division's landscape. In an exclusive discussion, the combat sports supremo addressed the uncertain future of British interim champion Tom Aspinall and dropped a bombshell about Croatian powerhouse Ante Delija.
The Aspinall Conundrum
Tom Aspinall's interim championship status remains clouded in uncertainty as White carefully navigates the division's complex hierarchy. The British fighter, who captured the interim belt with a stunning 69-second knockout of Sergei Pavlovich, finds himself in promotional limbo while the UFC manages the highly anticipated legacy fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic.
'When we get back in January,' White revealed, 'we'll figure out what's next for Aspinall.' This statement leaves the Wigan native's immediate future hanging in the balance, despite his impressive rise through the heavyweight ranks.
The Delija Development
In a surprising twist, White confirmed that Croatian veteran Ante Delija has emerged as a genuine contender in the heavyweight conversation. The PFL champion's name has been circulating behind the scenes, with White acknowledging 'we've talked about Delija' when discussing potential matchups.
This revelation positions the 34-year-old Croatian as a dark horse in the division, potentially setting up intriguing transatlantic clashes that could redefine the heavyweight landscape.
Legacy Fight Takes Precedence
The UFC's commitment to delivering the Jones-Miocic superfight continues to create ripple effects throughout the division. White defended the decision, emphasizing the historic significance of pitting the consensus greatest heavyweight against the most dominant champion in divisional history.
'We're doing Jones versus Stipe,' White stated unequivocally, leaving no doubt about the promotion's priorities despite fan and fighter criticism about holding up the division.
What's Next for British MMA?
Aspinall's situation represents both a challenge and opportunity for British MMA. The interim champion's patience is being tested as he awaits clarity on his championship pathway. Meanwhile, the emergence of Delija as a potential opponent creates new narrative possibilities for the division.
The coming months promise dramatic developments in the heavyweight division, with British fans eagerly awaiting news about their champion's next move while Croatian supporters celebrate Delija's arrival in the UFC conversation.
