By HITC,Jordan Ellis

Copyright yardbarker

On October 25, Tom Aspinall is set to defend his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321.

The Frenchman has not been seen as a thrilling challenger by many fans, having already lost title bouts to Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou, who both used their grappling to get the win.

Gane’s most recent fight – a split-decision victory over Alexander Volkov – was also shrouded in controversy. Even Dana White publicly apologised to Volkov after the result, given how close and disputed it was.

Despite those question marks, Aspinall remains positive about where the division is heading, as he told Bloody Elbow.

“It’s heavyweight MMA, anybody can beat anybody, so you just never know.

“As far as name value, yeah, it’s probably not as good now as it’s been before.

“But I think the level of the guys is really good actually. There’s a few new signings coming in and I think it’s gonna be an exciting few years for the heavyweight division,” he stated.

Joe Rogan expresses concern over the UFC heavyweight division

Back in February, Joe Rogan spoke openly about his concerns regarding the UFC’s heavyweight division.

Speaking on his own podcast, he said: “Man, the heavyweight division is so shallow.

“I was just thinking that the other day, because if they don’t make Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall, what is compelling?”

Rogan added: “Unless they bring Francis [Ngannou] back. Unless the PFL collapses and he gets released.”

Aspinall’s teammate Ante Delija is among a number of heavyweights the UFC has signed recently.

The promotion appears to be putting real effort into revitalising a division that has traditionally been one of combat sports’ biggest draws.

Whether those efforts pay off remains to be seen – but Aspinall remains positive about where things are heading.