Interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has rapidly ascended through the ranks of the heavyweight division since joining the promotion in July 2023. In just three years, Aspinall has become a household name and a notable figure in the sport, particularly in his home country of England. Now, Aspinall aims to give back to the community by starting a charity dedicated to autism, a cause close to his heart as one of his three sons is autistic.
In a recent update on his YouTube channel, Aspinall shared his intentions, saying, "I want to get some more into charity stuff. I want to do some more for autism and that because my son's autistic." Aspinall plans to create initiatives that support individuals with autism and their families, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in everyday life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects roughly 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States. Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), encompasses a range of conditions characterized by difficulties with social skills, communication, and often includes repetitive behaviors. Each individual experiences autism differently, which can complicate public interactions for families with autistic children.
Aspinall acknowledged the difficulty of launching a charity, saying, "Setting up a charity is not easy. I'm in the early stages of it." He remains committed to this mission, understanding the positive impact that such initiatives can have on those affected by autism.
In the world of mixed martial arts, Aspinall captured the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295 in November 2023. He then made an impressive defense of his title at UFC 304, where he knocked out Curtis Blaydes in just 60 seconds, showcasing his skills and solidifying his place among the top heavyweights. However, since then, he has found himself sidelined, waiting for the UFC to book a title unification bout against champion Jon Jones or another opponent.
Aspinall recently hinted at an upcoming announcement regarding his next fight, yet details about this potential matchup remain under wraps. He has expressed his belief that Jones is retired, leading him to anticipate a different opponent in his next bout.
The plans for his charity reflect Aspinall's character both inside and outside the octagon, revealing a commitment to making a difference for families impacted by autism. As he continues to navigate his career in mixed martial arts, fans can look forward to seeing how Aspinall balances his role as a champion and community advocate.
