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UFC Heavyweight Division in Turmoil Amid Aspinall's Recovery

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall's recovery from double eye surgery leaves the division in turmoil and raises questions about vacating the belt.
Sean O'Malley, UFC veteran, warned that being sidelined could jeopardize Aspinall's career.
Matt Brown, MMA fighter, said the division lacks elite fighters and needs big-name matchups, citing Alex Pereira (UFC fighter) as a potential opponent.
The UFC faces pressure to manage the situation effectively while Aspinall recovers.

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Story summary

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall's recovery from double eye surgery leaves the division in turmoil and raises questions about vacating the belt.
Sean O'Malley, UFC veteran, warned that being sidelined could jeopardize Aspinall's career.
Matt Brown, MMA fighter, said the division lacks elite fighters and needs big-name matchups, citing Alex Pereira (UFC fighter) as a potential opponent.
The UFC faces pressure to manage the situation effectively while Aspinall recovers.