UFC Heavyweight Tom Aspinall Faces Potential Double Eye Surgery After Devastating Injury
London, UK – December 4, 2025 - UFC heavyweight contender Tom Aspinall is contemplating surgery on both eyes after being diagnosed with bilateral Brown’s syndrome following a controversial eye poke during his recent bout against Cyril gane. The injury has left Aspinall with persistent double vision, significantly impacting his daily life and training, and casting doubt on his immediate return to the Octagon.
Aspinall revealed he was diagnosed with Brown’s syndrome, a condition limiting eye movement, and experiencing ongoing double vision. He personally consulted with ophthalmologist Dr. Al-Hiti, who delivered a pessimistic prognosis. According to Aspinall,Dr. Al-Hiti stated, “There is still a long way to go. it is better not to fight until the double vision disappears. Excessive training can worsen the condition, and normal performance cannot be achieved with overlapping vision. The possibility of surgery on both eyes is also being discussed.”
The injury occurred during the fight with Gane, where Aspinall stopped the contest, telling the referee, “I can’t see.” This decision sparked criticism from some fans and fellow fighters, but Dr. Al-Hiti defended aspinall, stating, “The decision to stop the game in those circumstances was very right. It was a courageous decision that prevented further damage.”
Aspinall himself has been resolute about his return, emphasizing on his YouTube channel, “I will only return to the Octagon when I am 100% recovered. I will not fight again until my eye is entirely fine.”
Reports from the British BBC confirm the severity of the injury, stating Aspinall was diagnosed with “traumatic bilateral Brown syndrome after being stabbed in both eyes at the same time during a match” and is currently unable to resume MMA training due to the continued double vision.
Aspinall’s father recently told Sky Sports that his son’s recovery is progressing slower than hoped. “I can barely see in my right eye and it only appears gray. my left eye vision has also recovered only about half,” he revealed.
The incident has also prompted calls for stricter regulations within the UFC. Veteran referee Herb Dean has argued for “a stricter point deduction rule for eye-poking fouls.” Multiple British media outlets report the UFC is considering improvements to glove structure and strengthening regulations, acknowledging the risk posed by the exposed finger design of current UFC gloves.
Despite the challenges, Aspinall remains determined to face Gane again once fully recovered. “I want to end this problem, but I can’t fight if my eyes don’t come back,” he stated, making his eyesight the sole condition for his return. The UFC plans to monitor Aspinall’s recovery and adjust future match schedules accordingly.