UFC mixed martial arts heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has relinquished his title due to persistent complications stemming from an eye injury sustained during his bout against Ciryl Gane last year, the British fighter announced on Monday.
Aspinall revealed that he had already agreed upon a return date and was back sparring when an accident caused additional damage to his right eye. The 33-year-old stated on Instagram that he remains ready to compete but emphasized that his timeline for returning to the octagon is now uncertain.
Since his title defense against Gane at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 25, 2025, Aspinall has undergone several surgeries. That contest was declared a first-round no-contest after Aspinall was unable to continue following severe eye pokes from Gane.
Choosing to vacate the belt rather than leave the division in limbo, Aspinall’s decision opens the path for Ciryl Gane, who captured the interim heavyweight championship with a victory over Alex Pereira in June, to be elevated to undisputed champion.
Despite stepping down from the throne, the former champion clarified that he is not retiring. “Stepping away from the title is not stepping away from the sport or the dream,” he wrote, adding that he remains committed to recovering and competing again as soon as medically cleared.
Sad for Aspinall, but Ciryl looks dominant anyway. I think he’s going to defend well.
Does this count as vacating or was it forced? The line feels blurry when you’re hurt.
I thought he was close to returning? This eye issue sounds incredibly frustrating for him.
Finally, a clear champion. Gane earned this by winning the interim belt fair and square.