Tom Aspinall UFC return fight called off after | Boxing News

Tom Aspinall’s UFC return ended in controversy after the match was declared a no contest due to the Brit being poked in both eyes by Ciryl Gane. It continues a difficult 12 months for the top British star, who was returning to the ring having last been seen in motion in July 2024 when he took just over a minute to get his revenge and knock out rival Curtis Blaydes.

In the next months, Aspinall was set to face Jon Jones in a unification bout. After Jones’ commanding win over Stipe Miocic last November, the UFC legend hinted at one closing fight inside the Octagon. However, he did not publicly commit to combating Aspinall before saying his quick retirement from the game in June. Aspinall was then promoted to undisputed champion and was eager to make up for misplaced time with his first fight back. Gane was undoubtedly set to be Aspinall’s hardest problem on paper, but catastrophe struck deep into the first spherical when referee Jason Herzog had to stop the fight due to an unintentional eye poke.

Before UFC 321, critics speculated whether or not Gane’s showdown with Aspinall could be his last probability at the 265lbs title. Gane was given the chance following his disputed victory over Alexander Volkov last December, but has beforehand failed two makes an attempt at the undisputed prize.

Full of confidence, Aspinall strode in direction of the cage, eager to impress the UFC followers with a standout efficiency. In distinction, Gane appeared considerably anxious and made a minor mistake on his manner to the Octagon, as the commentary workforce famous that the formidable knockout artist had forgotten his cup.

Nevertheless, the matter was resolved and the bout finally started. Remarkably, it was the Frenchman who emerged swinging for the fences – exceptionally gentle and swift on his ft. ‘Bon Gamin’ depended on his fast jab and strikes to Aspinall’s lead leg early on in a bid to hinder the Wigan warrior.

Following a crisp exchange from both fighters, some blood started to seep down the nostril of the champion. The heavyweight king was evidently uncomfortable having absorbed a number of jabs.

Gane thwarted a takedown attempt midway through the spherical, and was starting to uncover some rhythm before catastrophe struck after Gane inadvertently poked Aspinall in his eyes with an prolonged hand. The referee immediately called for a stoppage in the motion and permitted the Brit 5 minutes to get better as a consequence of the ‘unintentional’ foul.

Aspinall was heard telling the cageside doctor: “His f***ing finger was right in my eyeball mate,” while also saying that he could not see.