Published 27 days ago
The UFC heavyweight division searches for a new champion following Tom Aspinall's withdrawal
Hidden h2 tag if not homepage
The UFC heavyweight division is in turmoil after Tom Aspinall vacated the belt for medical reasons. Between established favorites and controversial underdogs, who will inherit the title and reignite the race to the top?
To remember:
- Tom Aspinall vacates the UFC heavyweight belt for medical reasons, leaving a void in the division.
- Ciryl Gane, who defeated Alex Pereira in 2025, could inherit the title, but the division remains unstable.
- Alex Pereira, a favorite to unify the title, aims for a historic feat: becoming the UFC's first triple champion.
- Josh Hokit, undefeated and provocative, embodies a controversial alternative with an aggressive style and an Olympic wrestling background.
A Vacant Title and a Division in Crisis
The UFC is going through a turbulent period after Tom Aspinall's decision to vacate the heavyweight belt. The Brit, who underwent eye surgery earlier this year, chose to relinquish his title rather than risk his health. A brave decision, but one that plunges the division into unprecedented uncertainty. After months of negotiations to unify the belts, the organization now faces a dilemma: how to rebuild a credible hierarchy?
Ciryl Gane, the Favorite Despite Doubts
With a recent victory over Alex Pereira in 2025, Ciryl Gane appears to be the ideal candidate to inherit the title. Yet, this solution is not unanimous. Some observers point out that Gane, despite his talent, struggles to establish himself as an undisputed figure. A win over Pereira would finally give him the legitimacy he lacks, but a loss could reignite speculation about the division's future.
Alex Pereira, the Ambition of a Historic Feat
At 39 years old, Alex Pereira remains one of the favorites to reclaim the belt. A victory over Gane would allow him to achieve a historic feat: becoming the first triple champion in UFC history. However, a second loss would put him in a delicate position, ruling out any chance of a rematch against Aspinall. His age and already impressive resume make him a formidable outsider, but also a fragile candidate.
Josh Hokit, the Divisive Underdog
Undefeated and with an ultra-aggressive style, Josh Hokit represents a bold alternative. His Olympic wrestling pedigree and ability to physically dominate his opponents make him a serious contender. Yet, his provocative attitude and lack of media credibility complicate his rise. A win over Pereira could catapult him to the top, but a loss would relegate him to the background, confirming doubts about his ability to embody the division.
Between experienced favorites and controversial underdogs, the UFC must act quickly to restore legitimacy to its heavyweight division. One thing is certain: the next champion will not only have to defeat his opponents but also convince fans and experts that he finally deserves to wear the belt.