Tom Aspinall vacates UFC heavyweight title in bombshell statement as eye issues continue

British UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has vacated the UFC heavyweight title, according to a statement reported on September 14, 2026. Aspinall has not competed since October after suffering eye injuries caused by eye pokes from Ciryl Gane, which required multiple surgeries. He has been unable to obtain medical clearance to fight again due to the ongoing eye condition.