UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has returned to light training as he waits for medical clearance to resume full contact after suffering eye poke injuries in his fight with Ciryl Gane about six months ago.
Training Update
Aspinall posted a new video on his YouTube channel showing that he is back in the gym doing limited work. He said, “I know we’ve not done one of these for quite some time, not had a lot going on. Just been back in the gym doing a little bit of light training, still waiting to get fully cleared for contact on my eye. But – we are back in the gym, doing a little bit.”
The clip includes a short glimpse of Aspinall drilling takedowns and moving around the mats. He stressed that this is light work only until doctors clear him for full-contact sessions.
Vision and Recovery
Aspinall’s recovery focused on his vision after the damage caused by the eye pokes in the contest with Ciryl Gane. He has been under medical review and is waiting for a formal clearance to resume sparring and heavy contact.
The new footage shows encouraging signs. He is doing more physical work and can take part in activities he could not do earlier, while still following medical advice on when to return to full fight training.
Public Appearances and Video
The video also shows Aspinall going for a run with fans and being able to drive again – something he had trouble doing for a time because of his vision issues. Fans and followers saw a more active champion compared with recent months.
The YouTube video includes a cameo from his new manager, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn. You can watch the full video below.
What’s Next
There is no date yet for Aspinall to return to full contact or to announce his next fight. He, his team, and doctors are monitoring the recovery closely and will only clear him for full training when it is safe.
UFCcoverage will continue to follow Aspinall’s recovery and training updates as more information becomes available.
