Dana White fires back at claims he doesn't like Tom Aspinall

Dana White addressed speculation about his relationship with former heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall following UFC 331, firmly dismissing claims that he dislikes the British fighter. Aspinall vacated his title due to ongoing complications from an eye injury that has kept him sidelined and unable to return to competition. His recent partnership with promoter Eddie Hearn, who has publicly criticized aspects of Aspinall's UFC contract and the organization's structure, fueled speculation about friction between the fighter and UFC leadership.

White clarified at the post-fight press conference that Aspinall's absence is purely medical and completely routine in professional sports. "No, that's not the case," White stated. "It's the furthest thing from the truth. He's going through stuff with the doctor. He knows it's going to be a while before he comes back. This is totally normal."

The UFC president attributed misunderstandings to his own comments and Aspinall's responses, suggesting fans misinterpreted their professional disagreements as personal animosity. "I think because of what I might have said or what he might have responded to that people think I don't like Tom," White added. "It's the furthest thing from the truth. I have no reason not to like Tom. Tom's never done anything for me not to like him." White emphasized that his dislikes are typically unmistakable and public.