Tom Aspinall Vacates UFC Heavyweight Title

Tom Aspinall has officially vacated his UFC heavyweight championship. The British fighter announced his decision following his ongoing health issues and lengthy absence from the Octagon.

Aspinall has not competed since October 2025, when his bout with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 ended in a no contest following illegal eye pokes. Since then, the Brit has undergone several medical procedures, with his recovery taking significantly longer than initially expected. Dana White recently even admitted that the UFC was considering stripping Aspinall of the title due to his prolonged inactivity.

Ultimately, Aspinall made the decision himself to vacate the belt in order to avoid holding up the division.

“I’ve made the decision to relinquish the heavyweight title. I asked the UFC to allow me to make this announcement because I don’t want to hold up the heavyweight division. I know what it’s like to have your career put on hold, and I want other fighters to have the opportunity to fight for the title,” Aspinall said.

The decision does not mean the end of his career. The British fighter is continuing his treatment, but there is still no specific timeline for his return. A series of surgeries, complications, and new damage to his right eye have slowed his recovery.

Just a few weeks ago, Aspinall dismissed speculation that he could leave the UFC and confirmed that he remains with the organization. Now, however, he will have to fully recover before considering a return to the Octagon.

Aspinall’s decision to vacate the title opens the door for a new heavyweight champion. The UFC can now stage a fight for the vacant belt without having to wait for an uncertain date for Aspinall’s return.