Tom Aspinall Calls for Action After Ciryl Gane’s Foul at UFC 321, Hints at Rematch
London‑born heavyweight Tom Aspinall voiced disappointment following his bout with French contender Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. The fight, billed as a decisive step toward solidifying Aspinall’s claim to the undisputed heavyweight crown, ended controversially after Gane was penalized for a low‑leg foul that halted the momentum of the match. Aspinall’s camp described the incident as “unfortunate” and suggested it compromised the competitive integrity of the event.
The incident occurred in the second round when Gane’s knee appeared to strike below the belt line, prompting the referee to issue a warning and deduct a point. While the official decision stood, many observers noted that the foul disrupted Aspinall’s striking rhythm and limited his ability to capitalize on an early advantage. UFC officials later confirmed that the foul was deemed accidental, but they acknowledged the need for further review of officiating standards in heavyweight contests.
In the aftermath, Aspinall indicated a willingness to pursue a rematch, stating that “the fighters deserve a clean finish and the fans deserve a clear answer.” Industry analysts echoed this sentiment, noting that a second meeting could provide clarity on the hierarchy within the division and potentially set up a future title showdown. Meanwhile, the UFC’s heavyweight rankings remain unchanged, with both athletes retaining their positions pending the outcome of any scheduled follow‑up bout.
Looking ahead, the organization is expected to schedule a definitive clash later in the year, possibly as part of a larger event in Europe or the United States. Officials have pledged to reinforce referee training to reduce the likelihood of similar infractions. Should the rematch proceed, it will not only settle the immediate dispute but also influence the trajectory of the heavyweight division as it moves toward the next championship cycle.
