WATCH: Tom Aspinall Sends Sergey Pavlovich to the Shadow Realm in 69 Seconds on 2 Weeks Notice at UFC 295

UFC 295 featured Tom Aspinall taking on Sergei Pavlovich for the Interim UFC heavyweight title. The card was originally supposed to be Jon Jones’ defense of his undisputed heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic. However, Jones tore his pectoral tendon in training forcing the UFC to change its plans for the historic MSG card. But the absence of Jones led to a chance for Aspinall to make history at the event!

Aspinall and Pavlovich both came into the matchup with impressive win streaks in the UFC heavyweight division. The fight was a clash of styles with Aspinall considered to be the better-rounded fighter by many fans.  However, in the words of legendary boxing expert, Teddy Atlas, Pavlovich possessed, “The Great Eraser” with his ridiculous power! But what happened in the fight was nothing anyone could have predicted.

Tom Aspinall makes history at UFC 295

Tom Aspinall has now become the UFC interim heavyweight champion! Going into his fight against Sergei Pavlovich on short notice Aspinall was confident about his chances in the matchup. In a pre-fight preview, Aspinall had stated that he received the offer for the fight just 2 weeks out from the event. But his preparation and belief in himself led to him accepting the fight against the feared knockout artist, Pavlovich.

Both men were coming into the matchup with a string of finishes under their belts. And while Pavlovich had a reputation for his knockout power, Aspinall showcased why he represents the ‘new generation’ of UFC heavyweights! Aspinall caught Pavlovich on the feet with a pair of clean right hands. And quickly closed the show out with accurate ground and pound in the very first round.

In fact, it took only 69 seconds for him to shut the lights out for Pavlovich and etch his name into the history books! An emotional Aspinall took the time to share an inspirational message for all fans watching after his win. He stated, “I want to tell everyone at home, that if you ever get the chance to do something and you’re scared to do it, you should just do it.”

The emotional post-fight interview revealed Aspinall’s acknowledgment of Pavlovich’s intimidating presence, but he highlighted his own power. The UFC now celebrates its third British champion and first British UFC heavyweight champion. Aspinall even dedicated the belt to his father and credited him with the success he has achieved in the sport. He stated, “I’ve worked so hard over the years and no one has worked harder than my father so this belt is dedicated to him.”

The aforementioned legendary boxing trainer, Teddy Atlas, also took to social media to reveal what happened in the fight that led to the knockout win for Aspinall!

Teddy Atlas reveals fatal flaw in Pavlovich’s technique

The knockout of Sergei Pavlovich at the hands of Tom Aspinall has shaken the combat sports community! Coming into the fight at UFC 295, Pavlovich boasted a record of 6 consecutive first round knockout wins. His power and reach were notable factors coming into the fight.

However, Aspinall highlighted his incredible fight IQ and proper fundamentals to end the streak for Pavlovich. He caught the Russian with a quick combination that was only possible due to a mistake in Pavlovich’s technique. Teddy Atlas, took to Twitter/X after the fight to point out what happened in the finishing sequence.

He stated, “And notice also that Pavlovich threw his left leaving an opening for Aspinall’s right to land clean!“. His insight implies that Aspinall may have noticed the tendency while studying tape for this fight.

Read More: ‘Not Dana White but Someone Really High Up’- Tom Aspinall Reveals Getting Phone Call From a High-Ranked UFC Administrator for the First Time, Detailing the UFC 295 Scenes Post Jon Jones’ Pull Out

Nevertheless, the statement underscores why heavyweight fights hold such massive consequences for even the tiniest mistakes made inside the Octagon!

Do you think Tom Aspinall has what it takes to become the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion by beating Jon Jones? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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