Demetrious Johnson fears Tom Aspinall may never fight again

Demetrious Johnson has questioned whether Tom Aspinall will return to competition, warning that further damage to the heavyweight’s eyes could make a comeback too dangerous. Aspinall has said he intends to return once healthy and medically cleared.

Demetrious Johnson said he would be shocked if Tom Aspinall fights again, citing the risk of further damage to the heavyweight’s eyes during training and competition.

Johnson said in a video on his YouTube channel that he would be shocked if Aspinall fought again. He framed the view as a personal risk assessment, explaining that he would not risk losing his vision or being unable to see his children.

Aspinall suffered an eye injury after accidental eye pokes during his UFC 321 bout with Ciryl Gane. The fight was declared a no contest, and Aspinall later underwent surgery on both eyes, according to ESPN.

As of February 10, 2026, Aspinall had not been cleared to resume competition. His eye problems also led to the reported vacation of his UFC heavyweight title on September 14, 2026.

Johnson’s comments are an opinion about the risks of returning rather than an announcement that Aspinall has retired. Aspinall has said vacating the title did not mean he was leaving MMA and that he intended to return after recovering and receiving medical clearance.

The competing views leave Aspinall’s fighting future unclear. Johnson believes the potential cost to Aspinall’s eyesight could prevent a return, while Aspinall’s stated intention is to compete again if his health allows it.

No comeback date has been established, and any return would depend on Aspinall being medically cleared after his eye surgeries.