UFC: Tom Aspinall vacates heavyweight title

During his first title defence at UFC 321, Aspinall (left) sustained serious eye injuries after being poked by Gane (right). | Photo Credit: AP

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has officially vacated his title, revealing that ongoing, severe eye complications have left him medically uncleared to compete.

The British fighter made the announcement via social media, putting an end to a near year-long absence from the octagon following his bout against Ciryl Gane last October.

During his first title defence at UFC 321, Aspinall sustained serious eye injuries after being poked by Gane. The incident launched a gruelling recovery process for the champion, involving multiple surgeries and treatments for infections.

In a heartfelt statement, Aspinall expressed his frustration, noting he had recently agreed to a return date and resumed sparring before a new accident exacerbated the damage to his right eye.

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“I cannot get medically cleared to fight right now,” Aspinall wrote, addressing his decision to step aside so as not to stall the division.

“I know what it’s like to have your career put on hold and I want the other fighters to have the opportunity to compete for the title,” he added.

The 33-year-old’s withdrawal clears the path for interim champion Ciryl Gane. Following Aspinall’s inactivity, Gane captured the interim belt by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 in June.

It is highly likely the promotion will now elevate the Frenchman to undisputed champion status, mirroring the process that saw Aspinall crowned following Jon Jones’s retirement.