Dana White Pessimistic About Tom Aspinall's 2026 Return: 'Just Keep Rolling'

UFC CEO Dana White harbors doubts about a swift Octagon return for heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who is still recovering from significant eye injuries. Aspinall has been sidelined since sustaining multiple eye injuries during his UFC 321 bout against Ciryl Gane. The fight, which ended in a no-contest due to accidental eye pokes from Gane, saw Aspinall retain his title under unfortunate circumstances.

Currently, Aspinall is undergoing multiple surgeries to address his vision impairments. Meanwhile, Gane secured the interim heavyweight title by defeating former two-division champion Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 in June.

Following UFC 321, Aspinall voiced his dissatisfaction with Dana White's initial reaction to his injuries. White subsequently clarified his stance, stating he believed Aspinall was not seeking an easy way out and wished him a speedy recovery.

With nearly a year having passed since UFC 321, Aspinall has brought Eddie Hearn, CEO of Matchroom and a notable rival of White's in boxing, onto his management team. Given the absence of a clear timeline for Aspinall's medical clearance, White is focused on maintaining the momentum of the heavyweight division.

UFC Heavyweight Division Continues Amidst Uncertainty Over Tom Aspinall's Future

During a recent post-fight press conference, when questioned about Aspinall's future and an update on his return, White stated, "Tom Aspinall is hurt. Until we hear differently, the heavyweight division will just keep rolling."

White did not elaborate on whether Gane would face another opponent during Aspinall's absence or if he would wait for Aspinall's return.

Aspinall's extended layoff adds to a period of instability in the UFC heavyweight division. Following Jon Jones' unexpected retirement in 2025 and Aspinall's subsequent promotion to undisputed champion, the division has struggled for continuity in 2026.