Imagine spending just one second in a vulnerable position during your entire UFC career. That's the astonishing reality for Tom Aspinall, who's about to step into the Octagon as the undisputed heavyweight champion at UFC 321. But here's where it gets even more impressive: this Saturday's bout against Ciryl Gane could solidify Aspinall's dominance in a grappling stat that leaves legends like Daniel Cormier and Cain Velasquez in the dust. And this is the part most people miss: Aspinall's meteoric rise to the top isn't just about his knockout power or striking precision—it's his ability to avoid the bottom position altogether that sets him apart. With a mind-boggling 0.09% bottom position percentage, he's rewriting the rules of heavyweight grappling.
Aspinall's journey to the top has been nothing short of record-breaking. Since claiming the interim belt 15 months ago, he's secured his spot as the undisputed champion following Jon Jones' controversial retirement. Now, he's set to defend his title against Gane in Abu Dhabi, a fighter known more for his striking prowess than his grappling skills. Gane, a Muay Thai specialist, averages just 0.7 takedowns per 15 minutes with a mere 25% accuracy rate. This raises a bold question: Can Gane truly challenge Aspinall in a way that forces him into unfamiliar territory?
Aspinall's stats are jaw-dropping: the shortest average fight time in UFC history (2 minutes, 2 seconds), the second-most knockdowns per 15 minutes, and the highest number of significant strikes landed per minute in heavyweight history. But it's his ability to stay off his back that's truly remarkable. In a division dominated by wrestling legends, Aspinall's 0.09% bottom position percentage outshines Cormier (0.41%) and Velasquez (0.84%). This isn’t just a stat—it’s a testament to his unparalleled control in the Octagon.
Gane has vowed to drag Aspinall into deep waters, but history suggests otherwise. Unless Gane drastically changes his game plan, Aspinall’s bottom position percentage could drop even further. Is Gane underestimating Aspinall’s dominance, or does he have a secret weapon up his sleeve?
As UFC 321 approaches, one thing is clear: Tom Aspinall isn’t just a champion—he’s redefining what it means to dominate the heavyweight division. But here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Can anyone truly challenge Aspinall’s grappling supremacy, or is he destined to remain untouchable? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
