Tom Aspinall Vacates UFC Heavyweight Championship After Further Right Eye Damage
After nearly a year on the sidelines following a brutal eye injury at UFC 321, Tom Aspinall has officially vacated the UFC heavyweight title.
English heavyweight fighter Tom Aspinall has relinquished his UFC title after sustaining further damage to his right eye. The 33-year-old, who last fought at UFC 321 in October 2025, had been out of action since a no-contest decision due to a double eye poke from Ciryl Gane. Diagnosed with bilateral traumatic Brown's syndrome, Aspinall underwent double eye surgery.
Despite multiple surgeries and infections, the former champion returned to sparring, feeling confident and ready to compete. However, a subsequent accident caused new complications to his right eye, leading to his decision to vacate the title. The UFC and Hunter Campbell were informed of his progress, but Aspinall believes the setbacks stem from fouls during his fight with Gane.
He expressed his frustration and disappointment, stating he is "absolutely gutted" and "not done" with his MMA journey. Aspinall thanked his supporters and promised to return once medically cleared, stepping away from social media to focus on his recovery.
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