Tom Aspinall addresses UFC exit rumors amid eye injury recovery

Tom Aspinall confirmed he will not exit the UFC via a social media statement on August 26, 2026. The reigning UFC heavyweight champion has been sidelined for over 10 months following three eye surgeries due to a serious injury sustained during a no contest fight against Ciryl Gane on October 25, 2025. Aspinall's management has been in conflict with UFC president Dana White, leading to speculation about his future. Currently, there is no announced return date, but discussions with the UFC are ongoing, and a rematch against Gane is expected to be a major event.

• 12:30 AMYahoo Sports — Tom Aspinall’s Next Fight: 3 Eye Surgeries, 10 Months, Beef With Dana White: What We Know