Tom Aspinall praises new champ: That guy is underrated and has been through it all

The move of one of today's most famous fighters, Alex Pereira, to the heavy category is increasingly filling the front pages of MMA portals. However, according to the 31-year-old champion from England, it is still too early for such steps. The great Tom Aspinall believes the Brazilian has unfinished business in the light heavyweight division, especially when it comes to a possible rematch against Magomed Ankalaev.

"Pereira still has work to do in the light heavyweight division as he recently lost the title in a pretty tough fight. I think Ankalaev is still a very tough opponent for him. We'll see how their next fight goes," said the experienced fighter in an interview with ESPN.

The focus is on the rematch, not on jumping into a new division

Aspinall did not stop there, he praised the fighter from Dagestan who is currently at the top of the "light heavyweight" category.

"Personally, I think Magomed Ankalaev is underrated. This guy has been through it all. He recently beat a longtime champion and deserves more respect as the new champion," said the English fighter, who has an impressive streak under his belt.

Rematch

The Briton has a clear vision of a possible rematch that could decide a lot:

"It's going to be a tough fight for Alex, but he can win it. We've seen how powerful he is. But if we're talking about moving up to heavyweight, I'd try to get my light heavyweight belt back first if I were him."

After the retirement of Jon Jones, Aspinall automatically assumed the full heavyweight title. His next fight will most likely be against France's Cyril Gane, who is at the top of the list of challengers.

As for Pereira and Ankalaev, their potential belt fight could take place in October at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi, although there is no official confirmation yet. But it's clear that the UFC doesn't want to miss the opportunity for one of the biggest fights of the year.