Aspinall Denies UFC Departure Rumors

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has publicly denied rumors that he is leaving the promotion, stating he is in daily talks with the organization and has no intention of vacating his title. The clarification came on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, after reports circulated on social media that the British fighter had departed the UFC.

The speculation originated from an Instagram Live session with Aspinall's striking coach, Stipe Drvis, who allegedly suggested the champion no longer wanted to fight in the UFC. Aspinall quickly moved to correct the record, posting on his social media accounts: "Im not leaving the UFC. Ive never said I am in any interview and any words that have been taken from others today are simply not true. We are talking with the UFC daily and they will update you guys always."

Sources within Aspinall's camp also confirmed he is not leaving the promotion. The 32-year-old champion has been sidelined since October 2025, when his title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi was ruled a no contest after Gane delivered an accidental double eye poke. The injury left Aspinall with bilateral traumatic Browns syndrome, requiring three separate surgeries on...