British fighter Tom Aspinall is no longer the UFC heavyweight champion. He has relinquished his title due to recurring eye problems stemming from an injury sustained against France's Ciryl Gane in October 2025.
Aspinall has not stepped into the Octagon since that fight, which ended in a no-contest after he injured his right eye. The injury required multiple treatments and surgeries.
Recently, as he was preparing for his return to competition, Aspinall experienced further setbacks with his eye. This latest issue prompted him to vacate the belt, allowing the division to move forward. Aspinall announced his decision on his official Instagram page:
"I have made the decision to relinquish the heavyweight title. I asked the UFC for permission to make this statement because I don't want to hold up the heavyweight division. I know what it's like to have your career put on hold, and I want other fighters to have the opportunity to compete for the title."
While the UFC has not yet made an official announcement, it is expected that Ciryl Gane will be promoted to the undisputed champion. Gane is the current interim titleholder after knocking out Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250.
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