The aftermath of UFC 321 has reignited a debate within the mixed martial arts community about the persistent problem of eye pokes. The main event between heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and challenger Ciryl Gane ended in anticlimactic fashion when Gane inadvertently poked Aspinall in both eyes during the first round, forcing the British fighter to withdraw from competition and resulting in a no-contest ruling.
Eye Poke Epidemic: MMA Community Divided on Cause and Solution After UFC 321 Controversy
The incident occurred with approximately 25 seconds remaining in the opening frame. Gane’s extended fingers made contact with both of Aspinall’s eyes simultaneously, prompting referee Jason Herzog to halt the action.