Marcin Tybura hopes to see a unification fight for the UFC heavyweight title between current champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall to resolve the division’s title picture.
Tybura, a seasoned heavyweight preparing to face Michael Parkin at UFC London, discussed the ongoing public discussion between Jones and Aspinall regarding a potential matchup. Jones reportedly requested six months to prepare for a fight with Aspinall, adding another layer to the situation.
“I see a few ways to look at this,” Tybura stated. “It’s complicated because Jon Jones being in the heavyweight division is good for the sport. He brings more attention and is currently a bigger star in the UFC. So, in that sense, it’s better to have him involved.”
“However,” Tybura continued, “Tom Aspinall has earned the opportunity to fight for the undisputed title. It seems like Jones and Aspinall are now using tactics outside the octagon to get under each other’s skin and gain an advantage. I believe that’s what Jones is trying to do, and Aspinall is responding somewhat.”
Jon Jones moved up to heavyweight and won the vacant title against Ciryl Gane in March 2023. He defended it against Stipe Miocic in November 2024. Tom Aspinall claimed the interim title in November 2023 by defeating Sergei Pavlovich and defended it against Curtis Blaydes in July 2024, finishing both fights quickly.
“I really want to see this fight happen,” Tybura said. “It would be a massive event. The longer it takes, the more attention it generates, which also benefits Tom. Tom is already a well-known fighter, but not as big as Jon. Being associated with Jon Jones elevates his profile. I hope we get to see this fight soon.”
Tybura is returning to The O2 Arena, nearly two years after losing to Aspinall in a main event. Having experience with both fighters, Tybura remains neutral when predicting a winner for a potential Jones vs. Aspinall fight.
“I don’t have a favorite in that fight,” Tybura admitted. “Jon Jones is incredible and possesses a certain magic. But Tom is also unbelievable. His movement and abilities are amazing. The exciting part is that it’s truly unpredictable who would win.”
With Jan Blachowicz also fighting at UFC London, Tybura anticipates strong support from Polish fans, even when facing a British opponent.
“I’m very happy and excited to still be competing at this level after so long,” Tybura expressed. “And to be back here fighting in front of a crowd, which hasn’t been frequent lately. I appreciate fighting in London because it’s close to home and attracts many Polish fans. It’s a significant event for Polish fans, and there’s a large Polish community in London. I’m hoping for a big Polish crowd.”
Tybura defeated Jhonata Diniz in his last fight after a loss to Serghei Spivac. Now, he faces another undefeated prospect. While many fighters focus on rankings, Tybura prefers to take things one fight at a time and aims to deliver exciting performances.
“My reaction to the fight offer was my usual ‘OK, I agree,’” Tybura said. “I never choose opponents or make long-term career plans. I accept what comes and focus on preparing for each fight and being the best fighter I can be. Every opponent presents a challenge. Mick is 10-0, a potentially very dangerous opponent, training with top fighters. A challenge is always welcome.”
“I believe I still need to earn my way up, and I’m fine with that,” he added. “This event in London against this opponent gives me an opportunity to gain attention if I win impressively. I don’t plan on calling anyone out specifically. It’s usually spontaneous. If I feel like mentioning names after the fight, I will, but I don’t plan it beforehand. There are still many challenges in the heavyweight division. If I perform well, opportunities will arise.”
