Cain Velasquez, a name that resonates with MMA fans around the globe, shaped the heavyweight division with his explosive fighting style and unyielding determination. Winning the UFC title twice, Velasquez was a force to be reckoned with, dismantling many top contenders during his reign. However, his career was significantly marred by injuries, which prematurely halted what many believe could have been an even more illustrious journey. By the end of 2019, Velasquez stepped away from the octagon, leaving fans pondering what could have transpired had he remained in top fighting shape consistently.
In a recent interview, Velasquez reflected on potential matchups with formidable opponents like Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. Despite acknowledging the greatness of “Bones,” Velasquez expressed confidence in how a prime version of himself would fare against Jones. “It would have been a tough fight,” he noted on the “Basement Talk” podcast. This perspective showcases Velasquez’s respect for Jones, viewing him as a significant challenge rather than an insurmountable obstacle. He highlighted the stylistic aspects of their potential fight, suggesting that his wrestling prowess could have countered Jones’s striking and tactical approach, thus framing the matchup as one of the most intriguing battles in MMA history.
Stepping into the current heavyweight landscape, interim champion Tom Aspinall represents a fresh breed of fighters characterized by speed, agility, and a versatile skill set. Velasquez also acknowledged Aspinall’s grappling abilities while remaining confident in his own wrestling skills. Aspinall’s only loss was an unfortunate TKO due to injury, yet he quickly showcased resilience by avenging this setback against Curtis Blaydes. This blend of power and technique is what Velasquez sees as a potential challenge but one he believes he could efficiently neutralize. He emphasized that once he secures a takedown, it would be difficult for anyone—Aspinall included—to escape his ground control.
Injuries can drastically shape the career trajectory of athletes across sports, but in MMA, the impact seems pronounced. Velasquez’s career is a testimony to how injury can thwart the potential of even the most talented fighters. His story raises questions about the toll that physical wear and tear takes on the older generations of fighters and whether new training methodologies can mitigate these issues. It compels fans and analysts alike to consider what other matchups or title defenses Velasquez could have executed had he remained physically unscathed—a notion that continues to spark debate among the MMA community.
As Jon Jones prepares to defend his title against Stipe Miocic on November 16, all eyes remain on the heavyweight division, with Velasquez’s words reverberating in the background. While the era of fighters like Velasquez may have ended, the legacy of his fighting spirit continues to inspire emerging talents such as Aspinall. The heavyweight landscape is evolving, and both seasoned veterans and rising stars will be pivotal in shaping its future—sparking intrigue among fans about the potential matchups that lie ahead. The question remains: Can any current fighter live up to the legacy set by figures like Velasquez in this ever-changing sport?