Aspinall’s Title Vacancy Sparks Jones Return Speculation and Divisional Uncertainty

Key points

• Tom Aspinall relinquished the UFC heavyweight title on Monday, citing ongoing eye complications that prevent medical clearance to fight.
• Gable Steveson, Jones's training partner, stated that the vacant title might motivate Jones to return to competition.
• Ciryl Gane's interim belt was upgraded to undisputed champion following Aspinall's vacating.
• Matt Brown argued that a potential rematch between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane could negatively impact Pereira's marketability if he loses again.
• Michael Bisping emphasized that Aspinall's situation differs from his own past eye injuries, noting Aspinall still has a pathway to return if he recovers properly.

Background

Aspinall had previously faced eye issues after a no-contest against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321, undergoing multiple surgeries. His vacating follows earlier discussions about a potential Jon Jones return, with Jones having previously declined a reported $30 million offer to fight Aspinall. The heavyweight division has seen recent shifts, including Pereira's loss to Gane and ongoing debates about title contenders like Hokit and Steveson.

How outlets are covering it

MMA Mania highlighted Steveson's optimism about Jones's return, emphasizing his training partnership and belief in Jones's capabilities. MMA Fighting focused on the divisional implications, with Matt Brown cautioning that a loss for Pereira in a rematch with Gane could diminish his status. MMA Junkie featured Michael Bisping's defense of Aspinall, distinguishing his recovery from Bisping's own past eye issues and urging patience for Aspinall's return. Outlets differed on the urgency of a Jones return, with some viewing it as a marketing necessity and others questioning the UFC's interest.

Why it matters

The vacating of the heavyweight title creates uncertainty in the division, affecting potential matchups and marketability. A Jones return could revitalize interest, while a Pereira-Gane rematch risks diminishing Pereira's legacy if he loses. The division's future depends on how the UFC navigates these challenges and whether new contenders like Hokit or Steveson emerge.

What to watch

The UFC must decide on the next heavyweight title fight, potentially involving Ciryl Gane, Alex Pereira, or Josh Hokit. Aspinall's recovery timeline remains uncertain, and Jones's return depends on the UFC's willingness to engage him. Steveson's upcoming fight against Sean Sharaf at UFC 331 could influence his contender status.