Marcin Tybura hopes the UFC heavyweight title situation is resolved with a unification fight between champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Tybura, a seasoned heavyweight preparing to face the undefeated Mick Parkin at UFC London this weekend, spoke about the ongoing public discussion between Jones and Aspinall regarding a potential fight. This discussion intensified recently when Jones reportedly requested six months to prepare for Aspinall.
“I see it from a couple of perspectives,” Tybura stated. “On one hand, the heavyweight division is more interesting with Jon Jones involved because he attracts attention and is currently a bigger star in the UFC. His presence is beneficial.”
“On the other hand, I believe Tom deserves a chance to compete for the undisputed title. It seems they are now using external tactics against each other, trying to get under each other’s skin. I think that’s Jones’ current approach, and Tom is responding somewhat.”
Jones moved to heavyweight after much anticipation and secured the vacant title by defeating Ciryl Gane in March 2023. He defended it in November 2024, dominating and finishing Stipe Miocic. Aspinall claimed the interim title in November 2023 by defeating Sergei Pavlovich and defended it against Curtis Blaydes in July 2024, finishing both opponents quickly.
“I really hope this fight happens,” Tybura said. “It would be a massive event. The longer it takes, the more attention it generates, and I believe it also benefits Tom. Tom is already a well-known name, but not as big as Jon. Having his name associated with Jon Jones for longer is advantageous for him. I hope we see it happen soon.”
Tybura is returning to The O2 Arena nearly two years after facing Aspinall in a UFC Fight Night main event, a fight he lost by first-round submission. Having fought one and observed the other’s long reign at light heavyweight, Tybura remains neutral in predicting a winner.
“I don’t have a favorite in this matchup,” Tybura admitted. “Jon Jones is exceptional and possesses a certain magic. But Tom is incredible. His movement and abilities are astonishing. The excitement of this fight lies in its unpredictability.”
With former UFC champion Jan Blachowicz in the co-main event at UFC London against Carlos Ulberg, Tybura, aged 38, anticipates strong support from Polish fans despite facing a British heavyweight on Saturday.
“I am very excited and grateful to still be competing at this level for so long,” Tybura expressed. “And to return here and fight before an audience, which hasn’t been frequent lately. I appreciate London’s proximity to my home, and there will be many Polish fans. All of this combined makes it exciting. It’s a significant event for Polish fans, and many Polish people reside in London. I am hoping for a large Polish crowd.”
Tybura defeated the previously undefeated Jhonata Diniz in his last fight, rebounding from a loss to Serghei Spivac, and now faces another rising talent with a perfect record. While many MMA fighters prioritize rankings when choosing fights, Tybura prefers to focus on the present and aims to deliver an exciting performance for the fans.
“My reaction when offered the fight was the usual, ‘OK, I agree,’” Tybura said. “I don’t select opponents, and I don’t have extensive career plans. I typically accept opportunities as they come and concentrate on preparing for fights and being the best fighter I can be. Every opponent presents a challenge. Mick is 10-0, likely a very dangerous opponent, training with high-level individuals. A challenge is always welcome.”
“I believe this is a time where I still need to prove myself, and I am comfortable with that,” he added. “This event in London against this opponent is an opportunity to gain attention if we win decisively. I haven’t planned on calling anyone out. It’s usually more spontaneous. If I feel like mentioning names after the fight, I will, but I don’t pre-plan it. There are still numerous challenges in the heavyweight division. If I perform well, opportunities will undoubtedly arise.”
