UFC's Tom Aspinall Undergoes Eye Surgery After Injury

Heavyweight fighter's return date remains uncertain after eye surgery to address issues from eye gouging incident.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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British UFC heavyweight fighter Tom Aspinall underwent surgery on both eyes earlier this month to address the aftereffects of an eye gouging incident during his fight against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025. Aspinall suffered serious visual field defects and double vision issues that have prevented him from training and competing. The recovery timeline is unclear as Aspinall focuses on regaining normal vision before considering a return to the Octagon.

Why it matters

Aspinall was considered a rising star in the UFC's heavyweight division prior to the eye injury, which has created uncertainty around the division's future. The incident has also raised questions about fighter safety and the UFC's response to serious injuries sustained during competition.

The details

During the UFC 321 fight against Gane, Aspinall suffered multiple eye pokes that led to a no-contest result. Aspinall has since revealed he is dealing with a persistent black spot in his vision and debilitating double vision that causes dizziness and nausea when he tries to train. He had to wait for the initial healing process before undergoing surgery on both eyes in early February 2026.

  • Aspinall suffered the eye injury during his fight against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025.
  • Aspinall underwent eye surgery in early February 2026 to address the visual issues.

The players

Tom Aspinall

A British UFC heavyweight fighter who was considered a rising star in the division prior to suffering a serious eye injury in his fight against Ciryl Gane.

Ciryl Gane

A French UFC heavyweight fighter who was involved in the eye gouging incident with Tom Aspinall at UFC 321 in October 2025.

Dana White

The CEO of the UFC who made comments after the Aspinall-Gane fight that Aspinall chose not to continue, which Aspinall disputed.

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What they’re saying

“Slightly disappointing, because he hadn't spoke to me [when White made his comment after the fight]. [White] actually started giving updates that there was nothing wrong with my eyes when that isn't the case right now ... I feel I've done a lot for the UFC, so yeah, I am disappointment.”

— Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight Fighter (The Ariel Helwani Show)

What’s next

Aspinall is focused on recovering his vision and regaining his health before considering a return to competition in the UFC's heavyweight division.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the serious risks and long-term consequences fighters face from eye injuries in combat sports, as well as the need for improved fighter safety protocols and transparency from promotions like the UFC when dealing with significant fighter injuries.