Waldo Cortes-Acosta: Tom Aspinall is ‘not a champion’

Heavyweight contender Waldo Cortes-Acosta has questioned whether Tom Aspinall deserves to be considered the UFC heavyweight champion, accusing the Englishman of avoiding a rematch with interim title holder Ciryl Gane. Aspinall's first championship defense against Gane ended in a no-contest in October 2025 when Gane simultaneously poked him in both eyes during the opening round, forcing a stoppage. Since then, Aspinall has undergone multiple eye procedures and remained sidelined while recovering. Gane later captured the interim heavyweight title by knocking out Alex Pereira in the second round at UFC Freedom 250, setting the stage for a rematch with Aspinall. At Noche UFC 4 media day, Cortes-Acosta voiced frustration with the champion's extended absence, suggesting Aspinall has had ample time to heal and return to action. "It's frustrating to see the champion be like this," Cortes-Acosta said. "He knows that he needs to come back and fight with Ciryl Gane... A champion needs to be a warrior in the ring." UFC CEO Dana White and Aspinall's advisor Eddie Hearn have both indicated the fighter's recovery remains ongoing, delaying his return further. Meanwhile, Cortes-Acosta (17-3) is scheduled for a significant heavyweight showdown against Curtis Blaydes (19-6) at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.