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Dana White Faces Backlash from MMA Fans Following UFC 321 Eye Poke Controversy For Blaming Tom Aspinall

UFC president Dana White found himself at the center of intense criticism from MMA fans and media members following controversial comments he made about Tom Aspinall after the heavyweight champion was unable to continue at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on October 25, 2025.

UFC 321

The main event between Aspinall and challenger Ciryl Gane ended in a no-contest at 4:35 of the first round after Gane accidentally poked Aspinall in both eyes. The incident occurred with approximately 30 seconds remaining in what had been a competitive opening round, during which Gane had bloodied Aspinall’s nose and appeared to be performing better than many expected.