Aspinall Needs Additional Testing Before UFC Return

Tom Aspinall remains sidelined from defending his UFC heavyweight title while doctors complete further medical evaluations, according to his manager Eddie Hearn.

The 33-year-old champion has been out since last October's no-contest result against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi, per MMA Mania. The bout was halted after Aspinall suffered an eye injury from an illegal fingernail strike. Though he underwent surgery to repair the damage, commission clearance is still pending.

Hearn Confirms Aspinall Training But Awaiting Medical Clearance

Hearn told Bloody Elbow that Aspinall's timeline depends on satisfying commission requirements, not just his eagerness to compete. "It all depends whether he'll be ready. He's training. I think he's gonna have to go through some additional testing to make sure he's good to return, but he wants to fight," Hearn said.

The British fighter is under UFC contract but cannot book a return date until medical staff approve him. "If the commission won't let him fight, you know how serious the injuries were," Hearn added.

Gane captured the interim heavyweight title by stopping Alex Pereira at UFC White House during Aspinall's absence. Hearn confirmed the champion's frustration with the layoff but expects him back once doctors sign off. A rematch with Gane is reportedly under discussion once Aspinall passes the required testing.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Go ahead and pump the brakes on Tom Aspinall’s comeback — UFC champ still needs ‘additional testing’