Tom Aspinall vacates UFC heavyweight championship as he seeks to recover from on-going eye issues
Tom Aspinall has announced that he will vacate the UFC heavyweight title; Aspinall hasn't fought since October 2025 when his defence against Ciryl Gane ended as a no contest after he was poked in the eyes; Aspinall is still trying to recover from his injuries
Britain's Aspinall hasn't fought since October 2025 when his defence against Ciryl Gane ended as a no contest due to an eye poke.
Aspinall has had multiple medical procedures to address ongoing issues with his eyes since then but is still not ready to return to competition.
He has decided to vacate his title in the meantime.
"Ongoing eye complications mean I cannot get cleared to fight right now," Aspinall said. "I've had multiple surgeries, accidents and infections, and done everything possible to get back to competing.
"I know there has been questions about why I have been quiet. I have always followed the advice of the UFC and focused on my recovery while we've tried to make this happen.
"I have now made the decision to vacate the heavyweight title. I asked the UFC to allow me to make this statement because I don't want to hold the heavyweight division up.
"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: "We have worked closely with different doctors and specialists to try and make my return happen but, unfortunately, it is simply not possible right now.
"I am absolutely gutted. I have chased this dream since I was 10 years old."
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