In a highly anticipated showdown, UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is set to defend his title against challenger Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 in Manchester, England. The stakes are especially high for this clash, as UFC president Dana White confirmed during a recent news conference that the winner would go on to face the victor of the upcoming heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic.

The prospect of a heavyweight title unification fight has fans buzzing with excitement. When asked about the possibility, White emphatically affirmed that the winner of Aspinall vs. Blaydes would indeed have the opportunity to unify the titles.

The road to this moment has been filled with twists and turns. Jones, who won the vacant heavyweight championship by defeating Ciryl Gane in March 2023, was originally scheduled to face Miocic in the main event of UFC 295 last November. However, a devastating torn pectoral tendon suffered during training forced Jones out of action, leaving fans disappointed.

In Jones' absence, Aspinall seized the opportunity to step up and make a statement. Elevated to the card's main event, he faced Sergei Pavlovich for the interim title at UFC 295. Aspinall delivered an emphatic knockout victory, setting his sights on Jones with the intention of unifying the titles. However, Jones remained unwavering in his desire to face Miocic once he was cleared to compete.

While Jones has been teasing a November defense against Miocic, the UFC has yet to formally announce the fight. Fans eagerly await confirmation and anticipate the possible clash between these legendary heavyweights.

Adding even more intrigue to UFC 304, Aspinall and Blaydes will square off in a rematch of their 2022 bout. This fight serves as the only blemish on Aspinall's UFC record, as he suffered a knee injury just 15 seconds into the fight, leading to a TKO loss.

As fight night approaches, anticipation grows for the interim heavyweight title clash between Aspinall and Blaydes. The winner of this bout will not only secure their reign as the interim champion but also set the stage for a potential heavyweight title unification fight with either Jones or Miocic. UFC 304 promises to be an event filled with high stakes and electrifying action, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.