Tom Aspinall, Britain's first UFC heavyweight champion, is set to defend his undisputed title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on 25 October 2025. This marks Aspinall's first defense since being elevated to undisputed champion following Jon Jones' retirement.

Background

Aspinall, 32, has been a dominant force in the heavyweight division, boasting an impressive record of eight wins out of nine fights in the UFC, all via finishes. His journey to the undisputed title was marked by a 19-month stint as interim champion, during which he repeatedly called for a showdown with Jones. However, the fight never materialized, leaving Aspinall to face Gane in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

The Challenger: Ciryl Gane

Gane, 35, is a former interim heavyweight champion with a record of 10 wins out of 12 bouts in the UFC. Known for his striking prowess and excellent footwork, Gane has twice come up short in his quest for the undisputed title—against Francis Ngannou in 2022 and Jon Jones in 2023. His last fight was a split decision victory over Alexander Volkov in December 2024, a performance that left many questioning his readiness for another title shot.

Fight Analysis

Aspinall enters the bout as the favorite, given his explosive knockout power and ground game. With seven first-round finishes in the UFC, Aspinall has proven to be a dangerous opponent from the opening bell. Gane, on the other hand, will need to leverage his striking and footwork to control the distance and avoid Aspinall's power.

What's at Stake?

For Aspinall, this fight is an opportunity to solidify his legacy as the undisputed heavyweight champion and prove that he is in his prime at 32. For Gane, it's a chance to redeem himself after two previous failed attempts at claiming the undisputed title.

Conclusion

The Aspinall vs Gane fight at UFC 321 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting heavyweight clashes in recent memory. With both fighters having something to prove, fans can expect a high-stakes, action-packed bout that could redefine the heavyweight division.

Related Events

• UFC 320: Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira for the light-heavyweight title in Las Vegas on 4 October.
• Merab Dvalishvili vs Cory Sandhagen for the bantamweight title on the same card.