Tom Aspinall has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous heavyweights in modern MMA.
With speed, power, and technical skill rarely seen in the division, many fans once discussed him among the best UFC heavyweights of all time.
But today, the conversation has shifted. Instead of title runs and blockbuster fights, supporters are asking serious questions about Tom Aspinall future plans.
After a devastating eye injury and double surgery, uncertainty surrounds his next move. Will he return to the UFC octagon, or could a move to boxing be on the horizon?
The Fight That Changed Everything
Aspinall’s trajectory changed dramatically in his fight against Ciryl Gane. What was expected to be a high-level heavyweight clash quickly turned controversial.
During the bout, Aspinall suffered not one but two eye pokes. The impact was severe enough that he was unable to continue the fight.
What could have been a defining performance instead became a frustrating and painful night for the British star.
Eye pokes have always been one of the most debated issues in MMA. In this case, the damage wasn’t minor. Aspinall later revealed that his vision had been significantly disrupted due to the incident.
For a fighter competing at the highest level, compromised eyesight is not just inconvenient; it’s career-threatening.
Double Eye Surgery and Recovery
Following the fight, Aspinall underwent double eye surgery. According to his own statements, the procedures were necessary to repair the damage and restore his vision.
The recovery process has not been simple. Vision issues are among the most serious injuries a fighter can face.
Unlike broken bones or muscle tears, eye injuries directly affect reaction time, distance judgment, and defensive awareness.
For months, UFC fans have been waiting for updates. While Aspinall has remained determined, there is still no firm date for his return.
The biggest concern is not whether he wants to fight again, but whether his body will allow him to compete at full capacity.
A Possible Move to Boxing?
The uncertainty surrounding Tom Aspinall future plans deepened when his father publicly suggested that boxing could be an option.
According to his dad, boxing offers significantly better paydays. That financial reality cannot be ignored.
In recent years, several MMA fighters have crossed over to boxing for lucrative one-off bouts. Heavyweights, in particular, can command massive purses.
Aspinall’s athleticism and striking ability would make him an interesting addition to boxing’s heavyweight scene. His speed and knockout power could translate well under boxing rules.
However, transitioning sports at this stage of his career would be a bold move, especially while recovering from eye surgery.
If money becomes the primary factor, boxing remains a realistic possibility. But legacy and unfinished business in the UFC still loom large.
The Dream Fight: Jon Jones
One fight continues to excite fans more than any other: Aspinall vs. Jon Jones.
Jones remains one of the biggest names in MMA history. A showdown between the two would be massive, not just for the heavyweight division, but for the sport as a whole.
For Aspinall, facing Jones would mean proving himself against a legend. It would also provide a chance to cement his place among the division’s all-time greats.
The storyline is already built: a hungry, athletic heavyweight aiming to challenge an established icon.
However, this fight depends on timing, health, and UFC negotiations. Until Aspinall is fully cleared and back in competition shape, discussions about Jones remain hypothetical.
UFC Fans Still Waiting
Despite the injury setback, Aspinall’s fan base remains loyal. Many believe that once healthy, he can still dominate the division.
Heavyweight MMA is constantly evolving. New contenders emerge quickly, and inactivity can slow momentum.
That is why the coming months are critical for Aspinall. If he returns strong, the narrative shifts from injury victim to comeback story.
But if recovery takes longer than expected, or if vision issues persist, the UFC may not be his only path forward.
Will Tom Aspinall Return to the UFC?
So what are Tom Aspinall future plans?
Right now, the answer is uncertain. He is focused on healing and regaining full vision. A return to the UFC remains possible and likely if medical clearance allows it.
The dream of fighting Jon Jones still exists. The heavyweight title picture is always shifting, and opportunities can appear quickly.
At the same time, boxing offers financial security and a fresh start. If the UFC road becomes complicated due to health concerns or contract issues, a boxing move cannot be ruled out.
Only time will reveal which direction he chooses.
Final Thoughts
Tom Aspinall’s career has reached a crossroads. Once celebrated as one of the most promising heavyweights in the sport, he now faces one of the toughest challenges of his life outside the cage.
The eye injury against Ciryl Gane changed everything. Double surgery has paused his momentum. Speculation about boxing has added intrigue.
The possibility of a future showdown with Jon Jones keeps fans hopeful.
For now, UFC supporters wait patiently. Whether Aspinall returns to the octagon or steps into a boxing ring, his next move will shape the final chapters of his fighting career.