Dana White shuts down Tom Aspinall UFC exit rumours. The UFC heavyweight division has spent months waiting for Tom Aspinall to return, and recent speculation suddenly raised another question.
Earlier this week, speculation surrounding Tom Aspinall’s UFC future intensified after his striking coach, Stipe Drvis, claimed during an Instagram Live that the heavyweight champion no longer want to remain with the promotion. Aspinall quickly addressed the claims, denying the reports and making it clear that he had no intention of leaving the UFC.
Speaking to Spinnin Backfist, the UFC CEO made it clear that the promotion remains on good terms with Aspinall and expects the British heavyweight to return once he is healthy and ready to compete. “Whenever he’s healthy [he’ll return],” White said. “He’s not going anywhere. He’s with us, and we’re good with Tom aspinall.
White also said he was unaware that Aspinall’s striking coach, Stipe Drvis, had suggested the heavyweight champion no longer wants to fight under the UFC banner. Aspinall himself quickly pushed back against those claims and confirmed that he has no plans to leave the organization
“I didn’t know his striking coach had said that, but, obviously, that’s not true. And sounds like Tom clarified that. But yeah, we’re good. When he’s healthy and ready to fight, he’ll fight.”
Aspinall has not competed since his fight with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025.
The heavyweight title fight ends in a no contest after eye pokes leave Aspinall unable to continue. The injury forces the champion onto the sidelines while the UFC moves forward with an interim championship.
The long absence creates plenty of uncertainty around the heavyweight division.
Aspinall remains the undisputed champion, but the UFC eventually needs the division to move forward while he recovers. That led to an interim title fight between Gane and Alex Pereira.
Gane wins that fight by second-round TKO at UFC White House, putting himself in position for a potential rematch with Aspinall. Aspinall still holds the heavyweight championship, while Gane now holds the interim belt.
The pieces are already in place for a title-unification fight and the only missing piece is the champion’s return.
The rumors may have created plenty of noise, but Dana White has delivered a clear message that Tom Aspinall is still the UFC’s heavyweight champion, and when he’s healthy, the UFC expects him back.
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