UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has delivered a sobering update on his fighting future, revealing deep uncertainty about his return to the octagon following recent surgery on both eyes. The British fighter continues to grapple with severe health issues five months after his controversial title defence against Ciryl Gane.
A Career in Jeopardy
Aspinall underwent the double eye procedure this week, addressing injuries sustained when Gane poked him in both eyes during their heavyweight clash. The champion has struggled immensely with recovery, hampering his ability to train effectively and casting a shadow over his professional trajectory.
Disorienting Symptoms Persist
In a candid interview with Uncrowned, Aspinall described alarming physical symptoms that have plagued him since the incident. "Every time I try to change direction, it's very disorientating," he explained. "The best way I can describe it is that it feels like I'm standing on a boat. I get really dizzy and it's very difficult to focus on the area I'm attacking. It's like I don't know where I'm going."
The Manchester native further revealed he has a constant black spot in his vision, compounding his challenges. These issues have forced him to prioritise health over competition, with no timeline for a potential comeback.
Business Criticisms Emerge
Beyond his physical struggles, Aspinall voiced strong criticisms of the Ultimate Fighting Championship business model and fighter treatment. "I love martial arts," he stated. "I absolutely love it. I'll never stop loving it, but I just hate the business. I think that fighters are just completely replaceable and the business will make you feel like that any chance it gets."
He expressed particular frustration about the aftermath of illegal moves in fights, noting "Even if you get hit with an illegal move, which could affect the rest of your life, they don't really give a s***. And no one else does either."
Rematch Possibilities on Hold
While the UFC is likely to mandate a title defence rematch with Ciryl Gane should Aspinall recover sufficiently, the champion is currently refusing to contemplate any return to the cage. "I'm not even thinking about fighting at the minute," he emphasised. "All I'm thinking about is getting my health right, so thinking about a return date is pointless until that happens."
This stance leaves the heavyweight division in limbo, with one of its top competitors facing an indefinite absence. Aspinall's comments highlight the physical toll of mixed martial arts and raise questions about fighter welfare in high-stakes competitions.
