Tom Aspinall revealed that his eye injury is healing and he expects to receive medical clearance soon to return to full contact training. According to Aspinall, the UFC has informed him that his next fight will be against the winner of the upcoming Alex Pereira versus Ciryl Gane bout. Aspinall stated that he wants those two fighters to compete first, recover from their fight, and then when everyone is ready, they can schedule his next bout. This suggests Aspinall is in line for a significant heavyweight matchup, likely a title eliminator or title fight. The timeline depends on when Pereira and Gane fight and how long their recovery takes.
Tom Aspinall has confirmed that his eye injury is on the mend and that he expects to receive medical clearance to return to full contact training in the near future. The UFC heavyweight champion also revealed that the promotion has told him his next opponent will be whoever emerges victorious from the upcoming bout between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane.
Aspinall, 33, holds a 15-3 record and currently sits sixth in the pound-for-pound rankings. The six-foot-five Englishman, who trains out of Team Kaobon, is one of the most productive strikers in the division, averaging 7.63 significant strikes landed per minute at a remarkable 67 percent accuracy. He also adds a consistent wrestling threat, averaging 2.62 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Pereira enters the bout as the reigning light heavyweight champion, stepping up to compete at heavyweight. The Brazilian carries a 13-4 record and owns a 79-inch reach at six-foot-four. The 38-year-old is primarily a striker, averaging 5.16 significant strikes per minute at 62 percent accuracy, with a minimal ground game.
Gane, ranked second in the heavyweight division, is 14-2 overall and brings a lengthy 81-inch reach to the matchup at the same six-foot-four frame. The 36-year-old Frenchman out of MMA Factory averages 5.29 significant strikes per minute and has built a reputation for technical, movement-based kickboxing.
Aspinall indicated he wants both men to fight, recover fully, and then schedule his return when all parties are ready.
Why it matters
- Aspinall's next fight figures to be either a title unification or a direct heavyweight title defense
- A Pereira win would set up an unprecedented cross-division title scenario at heavyweight
- Gane, the division's second-ranked contender, would be a more traditional title challenge for Aspinall
- Aspinall's striking volume and accuracy would represent a stark contrast in style against either opponent
