News Summary
UFC 321 will feature a highly anticipated title fight between heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and former interim champion Ciryl Gane. This clash, taking place at the Etihad Arena, marks Aspinall’s first title defense since winning the champion’s title. Fans can expect an exhilarating matchup as both fighters prepare for a pivotal moment in their careers, with Aspinall boasting a 15-3 record and Gane at 13-2. The event will also include a co-main event for the women’s strawweight championship.
Abu Dhabi – The highly anticipated main event of UFC 321 will feature a clash between UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and former interim champion Ciryl Gane on Saturday, October 25, 2025. This matchup marks Aspinall’s first title defense since claiming the undisputed heavyweight title following the retirement of Jon Jones.
UFC 321 will unfold at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi and promises excitement with two title fights scheduled at the top of the card. Alongside the heavyweight title fight, the co-main event will see Virna Jandiroba take on Mackenzie Dern for the vacant women’s strawweight championship.
Aspinall, who carries a professional record of 15 wins and 3 losses, is coming off a remarkable victory where he knocked out Curtis Blaydes in just the first round over 15 months ago. He brings with him the UFC record for the shortest average fight time of 2 minutes and 2 seconds, finishing all his professional bouts by stoppage. In contrast, Ciryl Gane, the current number one contender, possesses a professional record of 13 wins and 2 losses, with recent performances showing him back in form with two consecutive victories.
Weigh-ins for the event have shown Aspinall at 255 pounds (18st 3lb), which is 7.5 pounds heavier than Gane at 247.5 pounds (17st 9.5lb). The weight difference could play a significant role in the fight dynamics, as Aspinall’s striking ability is complemented by his grappling skills, giving him an edge in power and control. Gane is known for his technical prowess with a striking accuracy of 61.3%, making him a formidable opponent.
Previously, Gane was notable as the interim champion but faced setbacks against Francis Ngannou in 2022 and Jon Jones in March 2023, which shifted the landscape of the heavyweight division. Despite these losses, Gane has rebounded in his latest matches and appears poised to challenge Aspinall for the championship.
The bout is described as a significant step in both fighters’ careers, with Aspinall expressing enthusiasm for what he promises will be a “very special performance.” Gane, meanwhile, maintained a calm demeanor during weigh-ins, openly addressing the crowd with a message of gratitude for their support.
As UFC 321 approaches, the event will be accessible to fans via ESPN+ PPV, with prelims set to commence at 10 a.m. ET and the main card beginning at 2 p.m. ET. The thrilling lineup of talented fighters is anticipated to keep fans engaged and offer compelling action throughout the night.
The stakes are undoubtedly high for this title clash, as both Aspinall and Gane look to establish their dominance in the heavyweight division. With expert predictions indicating that while Gane may hold the advantage in striking technique, Aspinall’s knockout power and grappling capabilities could swing the fight in his favor, fans can expect an exhilarating showdown in the Octagon. UFC 321 is shaping up to be a key moment in the timeline of the heavyweight division, with both fighters eager to showcase their skills and leave an imprint in UFC history.
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