Discussions about Vitor Belfort’s use of TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) during his UFC career have long been a controversial topic. While performance-enhancing practices are heavily criticized in active competition, they seem to be more accepted when used outside the Octagon. Even longtime UFC commentator Joe Rogan has openly discussed the significant benefits he’s experienced from TRT.
Recently, interim heavyweight king Tom Aspinall reignited the debate, taking a jab at Jon Jones over his PED use. However, Aspinall also revealed that he’s open to the idea of TRT—but only under one specific condition. During a conversation with Piers Morgan, Aspinall confirmed his willingness to explore the process later in life. Let’s see what the Englishman had to say.
Tom Aspinall weighs in on the matter of using PEDs after retirement
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The use of banned substances has been a long-standing and controversial issue in the UFC, with several high-profile fighters facing suspensions or penalties for violating anti-do**ng policies. PEDs including steroids, stimulants, and growth hormones, have often been at the center of these disputes. Fighters like Jon Jones, who has faced multiple suspensions for failed dr*g tests, and Anderson Silva, whose legacy was tarnished after testing positive for ster**ds following his UFC 183 win, are among the most notable cases.
Tom Aspinall has voiced strong opinions on the subject, calling the use of PEDs during competition clear-cut “cheating.” The 31-year-old has publicly stated that this is the primary reason he doesn’t regard Jon Jones as the greatest fighter of all time, despite Jones’ accomplishments. Interestingly, the Manchester native also admitted that he might consider using substances in the future, but only under specific conditions.
“When I retire, I will, yeah. Absolutely, just to keep my body healthy,” Aspinall said during a candid conversation on Piers Morgan Uncensored. “You know, your body stops producing testosterone after a while. To be a healthy, older gentleman, I’ll probably do some kind of testosterone [therapy].”
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Currently, Aspinall remains focused on his fighting career and is far from retirement. Dominating the heavyweight division, he has long sought a clash with Jon Jones, even serving as the backup fighter for the UFC 309 main event. However, the reigning champion has repeatedly dismissed the idea of facing the interim champ, leading many to accuse him of “ducking” the surging Brit.
For a long time, Aspinall attributed the lack of progress to Jon Jones’ unwillingness to accept the challenge. Recently, however, the Englishman has revised his perspective on the situation.
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Aspinall feels Jon Jones did the right thing by not agreeing to fight him
Jon Jones has been noticeably elusive when it comes to a potential clash with Tom Aspinall. During UFC 309 fight week, Jones even cut short a TNT Sports interview, seemingly to avoid questions about unifying the heavyweight titles against Aspinall. Despite this, Aspinall believes Jones is handling the situation strategically rather than avoiding the fight out of fear.
In the same interview with Piers Morgan, Aspinall shared his perspective, stating that the risk for Jones is far greater than it is for him. The Brit explained, “I don’t think he’s a snowflake. He’s just trying to get more money. I don’t think he’s ducking me. He’s trying to get more money.” Aspinall acknowledged that Jones’ career decisions were calculated and even admitted to agreeing with the champion’s approach.
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“You know what? I actually agree with a lot of what Jon says. When you put our resumes side by side, his resume is far superior to mine. The risk-reward for both of us is completely different—his risk is way higher,” Aspinall added. While the Englishman awaits his shot at unifying the heavyweight title, he has continued to make waves in the division, all while keeping the pressure on Jones.
The big question remains: will Jon Jones finally agree to face Aspinall, or will the undisputed champion take a different route in his storied career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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