Overview
- Referee Jason Herzog halted the bout at 4:35 of Round 1 after Ciryl Gane’s outstretched fingers caught Tom Aspinall in the eyes, with replays indicating a double poke.
- Doctors determined the champion could not continue as Aspinall told officials he could not see, and he later addressed boos from the crowd while expressing frustration.
- Aspinall retained the undisputed heavyweight title under no-contest rules and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
- UFC CEO Dana White said the promotion intends to schedule a rematch as soon as Aspinall is fit, while Daniel Cormier urged a quick turnaround, suggesting December as a target.
- The inconclusive ending drew strong reactions from fans and fighters, with some noting Gane’s early success and the division’s direction now hinging on Aspinall’s medical clearance.