Manchester's fighting pride Tom Aspinall is set for a career-defining moment as he prepares to defend his interim UFC heavyweight championship in a highly anticipated rematch against American powerhouse Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304.
The Main Event: Aspinall's Homecoming Title Defence
In what promises to be an explosive night of combat sports, British MMA sensation Tom Aspinall returns to the octagon to face his only UFC conqueror. The interim heavyweight title bout headlines UFC 304 at Manchester's Co-op Live arena, marking Aspinall's first UK fight since capturing the championship.
How to Watch in the UK
UK fight fans face late nights but potentially historic moments with the main card scheduled to begin at 3am BST on Sunday, July 28th. The early prelims kick off at 11pm BST on Saturday, with the preliminary card following at 1am BST.
Streaming Details:
- TNT Sports Box Office will carry the main pay-per-view card
- Early prelims available on UFC Fight Pass
- Preliminary bouts broadcast on TNT Sports 1
The Rivalry: Aspinall vs Blaydes Redux
This championship clash carries extra significance as Aspinall seeks redemption against the only man to defeat him in UFC competition. Their first encounter in July 2022 ended in heartbreak for the Manchester native, who suffered a knee injury just 15 seconds into the bout.
"This isn't just about the title - it's about settling unfinished business," Aspinall recently told media. "That first fight wasn't a true reflection of our abilities, and I'm determined to show what I'm really capable of."
Full Fight Card Highlights
The stacked UFC 304 card features multiple British talents alongside Aspinall's headline bout:
- Leon Edwards vs Belal Muhammad - Welterweight championship co-main event
- Bobby Green vs Paddy Pimblett - Lightweight contender clash
- Arnold Allen vs Giga Chikadze - Featherweight showdown
- Molly McCann vs Bruna Brasil - Women's strawweight action
What's at Stake for British MMA
Aspinall's championship defence represents a pivotal moment for UK mixed martial arts. Victory would solidify his status as Britain's most successful heavyweight fighter and potentially set up a unification bout with current champion Jon Jones.
"Manchester has been waiting for a moment like this," said UFC President Dana White. "Tom represents the new generation of British fighters, and this is his opportunity to prove he belongs among the elite."
With hometown advantage and redemption on his mind, Tom Aspinall steps into the octagon carrying the hopes of British fight fans everywhere. Don't miss this epic championship showdown in the early hours of July 28th.
