UPDATE: UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is set to undergo multiple eye surgeries, a critical step following injuries he sustained during his title fight against Ciryl Gane in October. Aspinall, who holds a record of 15-3, revealed that both surgeries are scheduled to be completed by mid-January 2024.
In a video statement released earlier today, Aspinall shared, “By the time this [statement] goes out, I’ll probably have surgery on one eye already. Next surgery is coming mid-January. So, we’re working towards getting back. That’s the plan.” The urgency of these procedures comes after Aspinall has been inactive since the incident at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi, where an accidental eye poke from Gane forced him to end the fight prematurely.
Aspinall’s first title defense ended in a no-contest, raising concerns about his long-term health. Since the fight, he has reported experiencing lingering symptoms, including double vision and a lack of eye movement. He has publicly expressed his belief that Gane’s actions were intentional, adding an emotional layer to his recovery journey.
The UFC is reportedly keen to rebook the heavyweight matchup between Aspinall and Gane as soon as he is cleared for training, emphasizing the high stakes involved. Fighting out of Salford, England, Aspinall is determined to make a comeback post-surgery, hoping to reclaim his status in the octagon.
As fans and the UFC community rally around Aspinall, the focus remains on his health and recovery. The upcoming surgeries represent a pivotal moment in his career, with many eager to see how he will bounce back from this challenging period.
Stay tuned for further updates on Tom Aspinall’s surgeries and recovery timeline as this story develops.
