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Tom Aspinall Cleared to Train After Three Eye Surgeries, Rematch with Ciryl Gane Expected

His return sets up a likely late‑year unification bout that will settle the UFC heavyweight title and spotlight officiating and fighter‑safety questions.

Overview

  • Aspinall’s title fight with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 on October 26, 2025, was stopped and ruled a no‑contest after repeated eye pokes left him unable to continue.
  • Aspinall told podcasts on July 22–23 that he underwent three eye surgeries, feared losing sight in the weeks after the injury, and called the procedures more painful than a vasectomy.
  • Multiple outlets report he is now medically cleared to begin training and is preparing for a rematch with interim champion Ciryl Gane later this year, though contracts and a date are not yet finalized.
  • Aspinall said he still faces heavy fan criticism accusing him of exaggerating the injury, and he pushed back by explaining the medical realities he lived through.
  • The expected unification fight will decide the heavyweight picture and is likely to renew scrutiny of refereeing on eye pokes and of medical and recovery protocols for fighters.