‘It’s been a nightmare’ – Tom Aspinall explains UFC return delays after brutal eye poke

Tom Aspinall has addressed why his injury has delayed his return to the Octagon.

Aspinall suffered a double-eye poke when he fought Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 and has been out of action ever since.

AFP

After being diagnosed with bilateral traumatic Brown’s syndrome, Aspinall revealed that he required surgery on both eyes.

The UFC‘s heavyweight champion has since undergone the first procedure, but his return to the sport remains postponed indefinitely.

During an appearance on Paddy Pimblett‘s YouTube channel, Aspinall explained why his recovery is so complex.

He said: “It’s been a bit of a long process.

“With other injuries, they just fix them straight away.

“With eyes, they try to let them — because it’s obviously risky — they try to let them heal naturally.

“So we’re getting surgery…

“They’re keeping me out for a little bit, not sure how long just yet though.

“I’ve got a meeting about it soon. It’s just been a slow process.

“It’s been a nightmare, to be honest.”

YouTube

What’s next for Tom Aspinall?

Aspinall is currently not permitted to partake in any combat-related activity as he navigates the road to recovery.

But when the Brit does get the all clear to make his return, he has his sights set on a rematch with Gane.

He explained on his YouTube channel in December: “That’s the plan!

“By the time this is coming out, I’ve probably had surgery on one side already.

“Next surgery is coming mid-January.

“We’re working towards getting back, and that’s the plan.”