Tom Aspinall will make his first defence as the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion against Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 321, scheduled for October 25, 2025, at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
The UFC321 fight marks Aspinall’s return after a 15-month hiatus following his first-round knockout of Curtis Blaydes in July 2024, when he held the interim championship. The matchup comes after Jon Jones’ retirement and his brief consideration of a return, shifting the focus to Aspinall’s reign.
Tom Aspinall became the undisputed champion after Jon Jones announced his retirement, which dashed any hopes for a unification bout. Although Jones briefly re-entered the UFC’s drug testing pool, suggesting a potential comeback, UFC President Dana White expressed scepticism, stating, “I don’t trust Jon Jones to return in time for the White House event next year.” Now that Aspinall is the undisputed champion, he aims to solidify his legacy by facing Gane.
His last fight showcased his knockout power, as he stopped Blaydes in under a minute. This defence tests Aspinall’s ability to dominate a top contender.
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, 2025Ciryl Gane’s Title Pursuit
Ciryl Gane is currently on a two-fight win streak and is pursuing the heavyweight title for the third time. He lost to Francis Ngannou in 2022 and was submitted by Jon Jones in 2023. A recent narrow victory over Alexander Volkov earned Gane this opportunity. His technical striking presents a challenge to Aspinall’s aggressive style.
The main event has the potential to redefine the heavyweight division. A victory for Aspinall would solidify his dominance, while Gane seeks to capture the elusive title. The Abu Dhabi location enhances the global appeal of this high-stakes matchup.
Jones’ retirement and return rumours created uncertainty, but White’s focus on Aspinall signals a new era. Fans anticipate a thrilling matchup, with Aspinall’s power facing Gane’s precision. UFC 321’s headline fight promises to shape the heavyweight landscape. Aspinall and Gane bring contrasting skills, making this a must-watch event.
