Dana White, the chief executive of the UFC, remains skeptical about a swift Octagon return for Tom Aspinall as the fighter heals from serious eye damage.
The reigning UFC heavyweight kingpin, Tom Aspinall, has been out of action following several ocular injuries sustained during his clash with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 last year. Only moments after the opening bell, unintentional eye strikes from Gane resulted in a no contest ruling, allowing Aspinall to keep his gold under less-than-ideal circumstances.
Currently, Aspinall is still recovering after having several surgical procedures to restore the sight in both of his eyes. While he has been away, Gane captured the interim heavyweight crown by securing a stoppage victory over ex-double champion Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 this past June.
Right after UFC 321, Aspinall voiced his frustration over Dana White’s initial reaction to the injuries he sustained in the Gane bout. The UFC boss later cleared the air, stating he never believed Aspinall was looking for an easy escape, and extended his best wishes for the champion’s rehabilitation.
Nearly twelve months after the events of UFC 321, Aspinall bolstered his representation by signing with Matchroom boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, a prominent rival of White’s. Because there is currently no schedule for Aspinall to receive medical clearance, White is set on steering the heavyweight category forward.
Dana White stays quiet on Tom Aspinall’s return timeline while heavyweight class ‘continues to move’
At a post-fight press event not long ago, White faced inquiries regarding Aspinall’s long-term prospects and when he might return to action.
“Tom Aspinall is sidelined by injury. Until we get updates, the heavyweight division is going to keep moving forward,” White remarked concerning the champion’s situation. (via MMA Junkie)
The UFC chief did not clarify if Gane will take another fight in the interim or if he will opt to sit out until Aspinall is healthy enough to defend the belt.
This prolonged absence only heightens the instability that has plagued the UFC’s heaviest weight class over the past couple of years. Following Jon Jones’ sudden retirement in 2025 and Aspinall’s subsequent elevation to the undisputed title holder, the category has struggled to find consistency heading into 2026.
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This piece originally debuted on BJPENN.COM
