Tom Aspinall is gearing up for his interim heavyweight title defense against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 in Manchester on July 27. Embracing his English roots, Aspinall has incorporated some unique techniques into his training routine.
Inspired by the documentary “Knuckle,” delving into Irish Traveller bare-knuckle boxing, Aspinall begins his day at 4 a.m. with shadowboxing in a ring surrounded by hay bales. He follows the age-old tradition of toughening his knuckles by soaking them in petrol, a method endorsed by boxing great Joe Joyce.
Despite the early mornings and unusual training methods, Aspinall is dedicated to his fight preparation. He credits these unconventional techniques for giving him some of the toughest knuckles in the UFC.
Aside from physical training, Aspinall is mentally preparing for the late-night fight scheduled to suit North American viewers, even though the event is in his hometown. He remains confident in his ability to excel regardless of the time difference.
UFC 304 holds a special place for Aspinall as he sees it as a chance to exhibit his skills and seek redemption for his prior loss to Blaydes. He is excited to defend his title in front of a home crowd at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, seeing it as a fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration. Aspinall is grateful for the opportunity and is determined to make the most of this extraordinary experience.
