Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall has expressed interest in transitioning into WWE once his MMA career concludes.
The British fighter, who has been vocal about wanting to retire from the Octagon sooner rather than later, sees professional wrestling as an exciting opportunity for his post-fighting career.
Aspinall’s WWE Experience
Aspinall’s fascination with WWE was sparked after attending a live event in Manchester, England, in October 2024.
The event featured an in-ring segment with Cody Rhodes and Gunther, where Aspinall had a cameo appearance.
Speaking on Logan Paul’s Impaulsive podcast, Aspinall revealed that the experience left a lasting impression on him.
“Honestly, I went [to a show], and my personality is not this whole bravado thing. But I went, and I actually met the guys who are involved with WWE, the wrestlers and the staff. I was like, I like this. I like it a lot.”
CODY RHODES JUST INVITED TOM ASPINALL INTO THE RING AT A WWE SHOW IN MANCHESTER
he’s cutting a promo rn with Gunther 😂
📸 @BenRogerson_ pic.twitter.com/Qdfqd0L4wB
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) October 16, 2024
UFC Restrictions Prevented Him From Wrestling
While Aspinall enjoyed his WWE appearance, he wasn’t allowed to participate in any wrestling moves due to UFC restrictions.
Despite hoping to throw a few punches, the UFC prevented him from physically engaging in the action.
“I didn’t actually get to wrestle because the UFC put the blockers on that a little bit. But I thought maybe they’d let me throw one or two punches, but they didn’t let me.”
Nonetheless, Aspinall is excited about the prospect of stepping into the squared circle once his MMA career is over.
Tom Aspinall proposes a tag-team WWE match 😅
“Cody Rhodes, Tom Aspinall versus Jon Jones and John Cena. Baby faces versus heels.”
🎥 @TheSchmo312 #UFC #WWEpic.twitter.com/zyU0fjZuT2
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 21, 2025
Does Tom Aspinall Have a Future in WWE?
Aspinall made it clear that he is seriously considering a transition to WWE once he retires from the UFC.
“I would absolutely. That’s something that I would really enjoy doing, just as a little outlet when I finish from fighting.
“I think I’ve been pretty open with my fighting career, I want to be done sooner rather than later. I would rather be a couple too early than a couple too late.”
Aspinall is clear about not wanting to overstay his welcome in MMA, preferring to leave on a high note.
Cody Rhodes Weighs In
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes has already given his thoughts on Aspinall’s potential wrestling career, saying that he sees the UFC fighter as a “meat-and-potatoes wrestler.”
With his background in combat sports and an imposing presence, Aspinall could bring a unique intensity to WWE should he make the transition.
Thanks to @AspinallMMA for coming out to #WWEManchester and setting the stage for what will be a memorable #WWECrownJewel
📸: @Timmsy17 pic.twitter.com/tSsM9c1pX4
— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) October 17, 2024
What’s Next for Tom Aspinall?
For now, Aspinall remains focused on his UFC career, where he currently holds the interim heavyweight title.
As of right now, the only thing on his mind is a heavyweight fight with Jon Jones.
However, with WWE and UFC both under the TKO Group Holdings banner, crossover opportunities are more feasible than ever.
Aspinall’s interest in WWE comes at a time when Logan Paul has also made waves in both combat sports and pro wrestling.
Paul recently revealed that Dana White ignored his offer to fight at UFC 300.
If Aspinall transitions to professional wrestling, he would follow in the footsteps of MMA-to-WWE stars like Ronda Rousey and Matt Riddle while joining the ranks of Brock Lesnar, CM Punk, and Bobby Lashley, who have competed in both sports.
