Tom Aspinall references Jon Jones quote to claim Ciryl Gane’s eye poke was deliberate

Tom Aspinall on the UFC 321 Controversy

Tom Aspinall has made his position clear regarding the controversial moment in his UFC 321 title fight against Ciryl Gane. The heavyweight bout ended abruptly after an eye poke left Aspinall unable to continue, sparking debate among fans and fighters about whether it was accidental or intentional.

The Jon Jones Connection

In a recent interview, Aspinall cited a well-known quote from former UFC champion Jon Jones to support his view that Gane’s action was deliberate.

“If you aim your fingers at someone’s eyes long enough, eventually you’ll poke them,”
Jones once said in defense of criticism over his own history of eye pokes.

Aspinall pointed out that Gane’s hand positioning and repeated open-palm motions appeared deliberate, comparing them to Jones’ notorious fighting habits.

Reaction from Fans and Analysts

The MMA community quickly divided. Some defended Gane, saying the contact looked unintentional during a fast exchange, while others echoed Aspinall’s interpretation, arguing that reckless technique can still carry intent. Many called for clearer UFC rules and stricter enforcement to avoid similar endings in future title fights.

What’s Next for Aspinall and Gane

Despite the no-contest ruling, both fighters expressed interest in a rematch. Aspinall stated he wants to “settle it properly,” while Gane maintained that the incident was “an unfortunate accident” and not an intentional foul.

“I’m a clean fighter. No one wants to win like that,”
Gane said after the fight.

Author’s summary: Tom Aspinall claimed Ciryl Gane’s eye poke was intentional, referencing a Jon Jones quote, while the UFC community remains split over the incident’s true nature.

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