Tom Aspinall Calls Ciryl Gane’s Strikes Illegal After UFC TKO

**Tom Aspinall** blasted Ciryl Gane’s finishing sequence as “very illegal” on 16 Jun 2026 after Gane’s second‑round TKO of Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 in Washington, D.C., and teased a possible September showdown in Paris.

Aspinall, speaking to his YouTube audience, pointed out that several of Gane’s elbows and punches appeared to land on the back of Pereira’s head-a clear foul under the Unified Rules. “They look a bit illegal… they look very illegal,” he said, replaying the footage. The British heavyweight noted that while Gane dropped Pereira with a jab, the subsequent barrage seemed to cross the line, though he still praised Gane’s overall performance.

The comments come after Aspinall’s own title defense against Gane at UFC 321 in October 2025 ended in a no‑contest when Gane accidentally poked Aspinall’s eye. The incident forced Aspinall into double eye‑surgery, sidelining him for months. By highlighting the alleged fouls, Aspinall not only defends his rival’s reputation but also underscores the importance of clean fighting as he eyes a return.

Aspinall hinted he could be ready by September, willing to travel to Paris for a rematch with Gane. “Paris in September? I’ll do that,” he told fans. If the UFC schedules the bout, it would be a high‑stakes clash for the interim heavyweight title, with both fighters eager to settle unfinished business.

Gane’s victory over Pereira gave him the interim belt, positioning him as the top contender for the undisputed title. Aspinall’s allegations could prompt a review by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, potentially altering the official result or leading to disciplinary action. Meanwhile, the heavyweight landscape remains fluid, with former champion Francis Ngannou and rising star Jon Jones watching closely.

The UFC’s White House event on 16 Jun 2026 drew attention not just for the political backdrop but for the drama inside the Octagon. Aspinall’s outspoken stance adds another layer to the narrative, reminding fans that even champions keep a vigilant eye on the rules.

Supporters of Aspinall now have a clear call to action: demand a thorough investigation into Gane’s strikes and push for a timely rematch. The British fighter’s willingness to speak out, combined with his upcoming recovery timeline, keeps the heavyweight conversation alive as the sport heads into the fall season.

Aspinall’s confidence suggests he expects clearance from doctors by early September. If the UFC confirms Paris as the venue, the bout could become the marquee event of the year, drawing global viewership and possibly reshaping the division’s hierarchy.