Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Tom Aspinall To Defend UFC Heavyweight Title Against Ciryl Gane

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Jul 22, 2025 8:18 PM ET

Newly crowned undisputed heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall will defend his title for the first time when he faces former interim champion Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 321, set for October 25 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The promotion officially announced the matchup on Tuesday.

Aspinall (15-3 MMA, 8-1 UFC) has waited nearly 15 months for this moment. After winning the interim belt with a stunning knockout of Sergei Pavlovich and later defeating Curtis Blaydes, Aspinall was sidelined as the UFC attempted to finalize a super fight with Jon Jones. But when Jones opted for retirement, Aspinall was elevated to undisputed champion. Now, the fast and powerful Brit finally gets the stage to prove he’s the division’s true king.

Tom Aspinall will defend his undisputed heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi, Dana White announced. pic.twitter.com/PvyUyCJdA0

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 22, 2025

Gane (13-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) returned in December following a 14-month layoff, earning a controversial decision win over Alexander Volkov. A former interim champ himself, Gane is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted strikers in the heavyweight division.

UFC 321 marks a pivotal moment for both fighters: Aspinall seeks to cement his reign, while Gane looks for redemption and a second chance at undisputed gold.

Tom must look good!

Tom Aspinall must look impressive against Ciryl Gane. Who’s a former interim champ and common opponent of Jon Jones. To truly solidify his place atop the heavyweight division. With Jones having retired without ever facing Aspinall. The pressure is on for the British champion to dominate Gane in a way that sparks comparisons and possibly forces the GOAT into reconsidering one last dance. A decisive win would not only validate Aspinall’s title reign, but also send a loud message to the rest of the division that there’s a new king, and he’s here to stay.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: