Tom Aspinall appreciated a comment Israel Adesanya made to him at UFC 317.
The last few months have been nothing short of crazy for the Englishman, who waited patiently, hoping his arch-rival would sign on the dotted line.
Alas, the clash never came to fruition, with the legend retiring and the heavy hitter being elevated to undisputed champion status. Aspinall recently pinpointed the moment he knew Jon Jones wouldn’t fight him.
While the whole ordeal has been frustrating for the powerhouse, ‘The Last Stylebender’ had some words of encouragement for the Brit when they crossed paths on Saturday evening.
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Israel Adesanya gives Tom Aspinall a huge compliment
At UFC 304, Tom Aspinall produced a stunning display, knocking out Curtis Blaydes to defend the interim heavyweight title.
Israel Adesanya believes that while the undisputed crown wasn’t on the line, the victory is still extremely significant.
The Nigerian-New Zealander said: “The interim title means something. When you defend your belt, it’s a defence. Never let them take that away from you.”
Aspinall responded: “I appreciate that. They gave me a ruby for the belt.”
Adesanya exclaimed: “Then it means something, I’ve got seven rubies.”
The appreciative Englishman replied: “Like it, thanks, man.”
Tom Aspinall confessed he was terrified to ask former boxing star for money he owed him
While Aspinall is possibly the most intimidating man walking the face of the Earth, there’s one fighter who even scares him.
At the beginning of his career, the MMA star had to request some money from a brawler who owed him.
In a testament to his honesty, Aspinall confessed he was frightened to ask the retired boxer for the cash.