Dana White Doesn't Rule Out Stripping Tom Aspinall

Dana White says the UFC may have to discuss stripping Tom Aspinall of the heavyweight title given his prolonged absence, though he stopped short of confirming any decision.

"We'll definitely be talking about that (Aspinall vacating). It's one of those – like, Valentina [Shevchenko] doesn't want to tie up the division. And I'm assuming Tom feels the same way. I don't know personally where he is healthwise with everything, but we should clear that up soon," White

Aspinall hasn't fought since suffering a double eye poke against Ciryl Gane in October 2025 and has needed multiple surgeries, with his manager Eddie Hearn recently saying further eye testing is required before any return. Gane has since won the interim title with a stoppage of Alex Pereira, who has been pushing for an immediate rematch — a fight some, including Henry Cejudo, believe makes less sense than a matchup between Pereira and Josh Hokit.