Tom Aspinall has relinquished his UFC heavyweight championship following ongoing medical complications stemming from severe eye injuries sustained during his title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025. The fighter announced his decision late Sunday, explaining that he remains unable to obtain medical clearance to compete despite multiple surgical interventions and rehabilitation efforts.
The situation intensified when Aspinall was preparing for his comeback after agreeing to a fight date and resuming training. A subsequent accident caused additional damage to his right eye, further delaying his return to competition. In a detailed statement, Aspinall emphasized that medical professionals have not provided a timeline for when he can safely resume fighting, prompting him to step aside rather than hold up the division.
Aspinall expressed frustration that his injuries stemmed from fouls committed during the Gane bout, where he suffered double eye pokes that forced the contest to end in a no-contest. Despite vacating his title, the 33-year-old stressed he is not retiring and remains committed to returning when medically cleared. His decision came just one day after UFC CEO Dana White indicated the promotion would address Aspinall’s championship status.
With Aspinall stepping down, interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane, who defeated Alex Pereira in June, awaits developments regarding title unification. The UFC has not yet announced plans for the vacant heavyweight championship.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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