Tom Aspinall Eye Injury Update: UFC Champion Targeting Second Half of 2026 Return

Tom Aspinall Eye Injury Update

UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall has given fans cause for optimism after sharing training footage on social media with the caption "Back to it," signalling his recovery from the eye injury that has kept him sidelined.

The Wigan-born champion, who holds the UFC Heavyweight title, is expected to return in the second half of 2026 for a title unification bout. His likely opponent will be the winner of Ciryl Gane vs Alex Pereira, scheduled for UFC Freedom 250 at the White House on June 14.

Eddie Hearn Partnership

In other Aspinall news, UFC President Dana White has expressed confusion over Tom's decision to sign with Matchroom Talent Agency under Eddie Hearn. White said he "doesn't get" the move, though it does not affect Aspinall's UFC contract or fighting schedule.

What's Next?

If Aspinall's recovery continues on track, fans could see him back in the Octagon by October or November 2026 for the undisputed heavyweight title fight that MMA fans have been waiting for.