Tom Aspinall vacates UFC heavyweight title: ‘Absolute nightmare’

Tom Aspinall has vacated the UFC heavyweight championship due to ongoing eye injuries that have prevented him from obtaining medical clearance to compete. The 33-year-old British fighter announced the decision Monday, stating that repeated complications—including multiple surgeries, infections, and accidental trauma—have made his return timeline uncertain.

Aspinall had been sidelined since October 2025, when his bout against Ciryl Gane ended in a no-contest following eye pokes. He had recently agreed to a fight date and resumed light training before suffering another eye injury during a sparring session, forcing him back into recovery. Despite working closely with medical specialists and the UFC, including UFC Chief Legal Officer Hunter Campbell, a safe return date could not be established.

The heavyweight champion cited the particularly frustrating nature of his situation, noting that many of his eye complications stem from fouls—primarily eye pokes—that altered the trajectory of his career. He emphasized that fighters depend on officials to enforce rules and protect them during competition, yet he continues to bear the consequences years later. Aspinall holds a 10-1 UFC record and was riding a three-fight finishing streak prior to the Gane clash, dispatching Marcin Tybura, Sergei Pavlovich, and Curtis Blaydes in under 80 seconds combined.

By vacating the title rather than holding it indefinitely, Aspinall expressed his desire to allow other heavyweight contenders the opportunity to compete for the championship. Ciryl Gane, who earned an interim belt by knocking out Alex Pereira at the UFC White House card, is expected to be promoted to undisputed champion. Aspinall stated he remains committed to fighting and will continue pursuing medical clearance, but is stepping away from social media to focus on his recovery.