Tom Aspinall receiving treatment at the hospital after UFC 321. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube
Demetrious Johnson believes Tom Aspinall may not return to UFC competition. In his last appearance, at UFC 321 in October 2025, the Briton suffered an eye injury after being poked by Ciryl Gane . Almost a year after the incident and after undergoing two surgeries, the now former heavyweight champion (up to 120,2 kg) decided to relinquish his title , raising concerns from the flyweight legend (up to 56,7 kg).
In a video posted to his YouTube channel, Demetrious Johnson revealed that he contacted Aspinall to wish him a speedy recovery and admitted that he doesn't know if the Briton will ever step back into the UFC octagon.
“I texted Tom Aspinall today and I said, man, I’m sending good vibes, I hope your eye heals. We don’t know if we’ll see Tom Aspinall back in the UFC octagon. From the bottom of my heart, I would say I wouldn’t risk the opportunity of losing my sight and not being able to see my children,” said Demetrious Johnson.
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Finally, Demetrious stated that he would be surprised if Aspinall decided to return to fighting. According to the MMA legend, the injured eye will remain exposed during training and fights, which increases his concern for the safety of the former heavyweight champion.
“I would be shocked if Tom Aspinall fought again. Because when it comes to fighting, when it comes to training, that eye is always going to be exposed. Is he willing to take that risk? I wouldn’t take that risk,” concluded the former champion.
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