Tom Aspinall Vacates UFC Heavyweight Title Due to Eye Injuries

Tom Aspinall has vacated the UFC heavyweight title, citing ongoing eye complications that have prevented his return to competition. The British fighter announced his decision in a statement on September 14, 2026, bringing an end to months of speculation about the status of the championship. Aspinall's title reign was effectively paused after his fight with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025 ended in a no contest due to illegal eye pokes. The injuries required multiple surgeries and have not fully healed, leaving him unable to gain medical clearance to compete. "Ongoing eye complications mean I cannot get cleared to fight right now," Aspinall stated. "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." The announcement came just two days after UFC CEO Dana White indicated the promotion would discuss potentially stripping Aspinall of the belt. Speaking to reporters on September 12, White referenced the recent title vacation by Valentina Shevchenko due to injury, saying, "I'm assuming Tom feels the same way.