UFC: Tom Aspinall vacates heavyweight title without retiring

Tom Aspinall announced on Monday, September 14, 2026, that he is vacating the UFC heavyweight title due to ongoing eye issues that prevent him from receiving medical clearance to fight. The 33-year-old Brit clarified that this decision does not mean he is retiring and that he intends to return once he has recovered.

The champion has not fought since October 25, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. His title defense against Ciryl Gane ended in a “no contest” at 4 minutes and 35 seconds into the first round after an accidental eye poke, according to the official result published by the UFC.

Since that fight, Aspinall has undergone several medical procedures, including surgery on both eyes in February. After resuming sparring, another incident further damaged his right eye, Reuters reports, which has again interrupted his progress and left the timeline for his return uncertain.

Aspinall explained that he chose to vacate the title to avoid blocking the heavyweight division during his recovery. The Englishman had held the undisputed title since June 2025, following Jon Jones’ retirement.

The vacancy of the title reshuffles the hierarchy of the division. Reuters indicates that Ciryl Gane, who became the interim champion after his victory over Alex Pereira in June 2026, is now in a position to be promoted to undisputed champion.

Aspinall emphasized that he is not ending his career. In his message shared on Monday, he stated that he will continue his recovery and aims to return to the octagon once he receives medical clearance.