British UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has been left out of the upcoming White House fights event, with the promotion instead booking Alex Pereira against Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title. The decision, confirmed by UFC officials this week, has cast doubt on the status of Aspinall’s reign as the division’s recognised champion.
Aspinall, 31, from Atherton in Greater Manchester, captured the heavyweight belt with a first-round knockout of Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 295 in November 2023. He successfully defended the title against Curtis Blaydes in July 2024, cementing his place at the top of the division. However, the UFC has opted to create an interim title fight between Pereira and Gane, sidelining the Englishman from the high-profile White House event.
Speaking to reporters, Aspinall expressed disappointment but remained measured. “I’ve done everything asked of me. I’ve won the belt, defended it, and I’m ready to fight anyone. But it seems the UFC has other plans,” he said. “I’m not going to beg for a fight. If they want to make an interim title, that’s their business, but I’m the champion.”
The White House fights, a series of bouts promoted by the UFC in partnership with the US administration, have become a showcase for the sport’s biggest names. Pereira, a former light-heavyweight champion, steps up to heavyweight, while Gane, a French former interim champion, returns after a loss to Jon Jones in 2023. The winner will be expected to face Jones for the undisputed title, leaving Aspinall in limbo.
Analysts suggest the UFC’s decision may stem from a desire to build a blockbuster clash between Jones and Pereira, both of whom have significant mainstream appeal. Aspinall, despite his impressive record of 15-3, has yet to achieve the same level of crossover recognition. “It’s a commercial decision,” said MMA journalist Simon Head. “Aspinall is a brilliant fighter, but the UFC sees bigger pay-per-view numbers in Jones vs Pereira. That leaves Tom as the odd man out.”
The situation has frustrated UK fight fans, who have watched Aspinall rise through the ranks with dominant performances. His team has not ruled out seeking a release from his contract if the promotion continues to overlook him. For now, Aspinall remains the heavyweight champion in name, but the UFC’s actions suggest his grip on the belt is increasingly tenuous.