UFC heavyweight fighter Tom Aspinall recently opened up about the eye injury he sustained during the main event at UFC 321 in October 2023. The event, held in Abu Dhabi, ended prematurely when Aspinall suffered a significant eye poke from his opponent, Ciryl Gane, resulting in a no contest before the first round concluded. In a candid discussion on his YouTube channel, Aspinall shared details about the severity of his injury and the emotional toll it has had on him.
Aspinall revealed that he has been diagnosed with “significant bilateral Brown’s syndrome,” which affects his ability to move his eyes upwards. This condition has necessitated multiple surgeries, with Aspinall undergoing an initial procedure and another scheduled for mid-January 2024. “We’re working towards getting back,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to following medical advice and focusing on recovery. The injury has left him sidelined during a critical period in his career.
The psychological impact of the incident has been equally challenging for Aspinall. He expressed disappointment over how quickly some individuals he considered friends turned against him, criticizing his performance and the fight’s outcome. “People turn on you really quick, you know?” Aspinall noted during an interview with One on One MMA. This experience has highlighted the often unpredictable nature of public support in the world of combat sports, where athletes can find themselves under scrutiny from fans and peers alike.
The circumstances surrounding the eye poke have led to a debate over its classification. Referee Jason Herzog deemed the incident an accident, which spared Gane from a potential disqualification. Aspinall, however, disagrees. He argued that if an eye poke occurs more than once, it should warrant stricter consequences. “I’ve never accidentally done something in a fight,” he remarked, questioning the rationale behind labeling the foul as accidental when it was a repeated action.
Adding to the controversy, UFC President Dana White made comments after the fight that implied Aspinall was unwilling to continue. This remark drew criticism, especially as Aspinall had expressed concerns about his vision. Aspinall responded to White’s insinuation, stating his disappointment and clarifying that he had not intended to give the impression of avoiding competition. Following media backlash, White later attempted to clarify his comments, indicating that he meant no negativity towards Aspinall.
As Aspinall focuses on his recovery and upcoming surgery, the heavyweight division finds itself in a position of uncertainty. He has expressed a desire to face Gane again once he is fully recovered, hoping to move past the events of that evening in October. Aspinall’s situation serves as a reminder of the physical and emotional challenges professional athletes face, especially when injuries threaten their careers.
Fans and athletes alike will be watching closely as Aspinall works towards regaining his strength and preparing for a return to the octagon. The heavyweight division undoubtedly becomes more competitive with Aspinall in action, and his resilience will be tested as he navigates both recovery and the complexities of professional relationships within the sport.
