Dana White Confirms UFC Return To England With Tom Aspinall & Leon Edwards

The success of English fighters Tom Aspinall and Leon Edwards as reigning UFC champions seems to be driving the promotion's return to England for a much-anticipated pay-per-view event in 2024. Dana White, UFC CEO, hinted at a massive card planned for England sometime this year.

Tom Aspinall and Leon Edwards Paving the Way for UFC's Return to England

Rumors are suggesting a potential July date. While no fights were officially announced, Dana White did tease the possibility of Tom Aspinall and Leon Edwards, or even both, gracing the Octagon when the UFC returns to the UK.

"We have an English heavyweight champion [Aspinall] and many European stars. Two champions now hail from England," Dana White told TNT Sports, referencing the championship status of both Tom Aspinall and Leon Edwards.

He elaborated on the decision-making process, highlighting the importance of strategic planning. "We build all the different pieces to the puzzle, then come together to create the perfect event. This time, England emerged as the perfect fit, and I'm excited to get back there with some fantastic fights lined up for the UK fans."

An official announcement regarding the UFC's return to England is imminent, with Dana White confirming that the final touches are being applied to the event. "Literally days away from announcing it," White revealed. "We're working on some amazing things. It'll be a numbered, pay-per-view card – a truly great one."

While specific details about Tom Aspinall and Leon Edwards participation remain undisclosed, their status as English champions makes it highly likely for one or both of them to headline the event.

Aspinall, the current interim heavyweight titleholder, is eager to return to action. However, his dream of unifying the belt with reigning champion Jon Jones is on hold as Jones is scheduled to face Stipe Miocic later this year.

Dana White on Aspinall's Future and the Heavyweight Title Picture

This matchup was delayed due to a pectoral muscle tear that forced Jones off the UFC 295 card last November. This turn of events led to Aspinall securing an interim title fight against Sergei Pavlovich.

Dana White confirmed that Jones vs Miocic is still on the cards, but he's open to Aspinall defending his interim title in the meantime. "Considering it's already March, who knows when Jon Jones and Stipe will fight due to the injury," White said. "It wouldn't be fair to keep Tom inactive. If he wants to defend his title, we'll absolutely make it happen."

While Dana White ideally envisions Tom Aspinall facing either Jones or Miocic in the future, that won't be his immediate challenge. "Jones is set to fight Stipe," White stated. "Hopefully, the winner of that fight will then face Tom. We'll see how it plays out."

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