News Summary
UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is set to defend his title for the first time against former interim champion Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. The event will take place at Etihad Arena, featuring two title fights at the top of the card. Aspinall, with an impressive record, faces Gane, who has a strong striking accuracy. In the co-main event, Virna Jandiroba will clash with Mackenzie Dern for the vacant women’s strawweight championship. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ PPV, making this a pivotal moment for both fighters.
Abu Dhabi – The highly anticipated main event of UFC 321 will feature UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall defending his title for the first time against former interim champion Ciryl Gane. This significant matchup is set to take place at the Etihad Arena on Saturday, October 25, 2025. UFC 321 is expected to attract a large audience, with two title fights scheduled at the top of the card.
Aspinall, who ascended to the status of undisputed champion after Jon Jones retired, has a professional record consisting of 15 wins and 3 losses. He claimed the interim title in July 2022 and is coming off a notable victory, where he knocked out Curtis Blaydes in just the first round 15 months ago. Aspinall weighed in at 255 pounds (18st 3lb) for this title defense, making him 7.5 pounds heavier than Gane, who weighed in at 247.5 pounds (17st 9.5lb).
Ciryl Gane, currently ranked as the number one contender in the division, holds a record of 13 wins and 2 losses. He has had a successful run recently, winning two consecutive fights. Gane previously held the interim championship but faced setbacks after losing the undisputed title to Francis Ngannou in 2022 and to Jon Jones in March 2023. His striking accuracy, noted at 61.3%, could prove crucial in this highly competitive bout against Aspinall.
The co-main event of UFC 321 will showcase a thrilling clash between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern for the vacant women’s strawweight championship. Jandiroba is currently enjoying a five-fight win streak, while Dern has had a mixed record of 2 wins and 2 losses in her last four bouts. This fight adds further weight to the significance of UFC 321 as a major event in the calendar.
Aspinall has made headlines with his impressive fighting skills, holding the UFC record for the shortest average fight time at just 2 minutes and 2 seconds. He has finished all his professional fights by stoppage, demonstrating not only his striking power but also exceptional grappling skills. Experts have suggested that while Gane may possess superior technical striking, Aspinall’s knockout power and grappling advantages could play a pivotal role in the outcome of their match.
As the fight date approaches, both fighters have shown their professionalism. Aspinall has expressed enthusiasm for the contest, highlighting the importance of the title defense as a significant step in his career. Gane’s calm demeanor at the weigh-ins showcased his gratitude towards the fans, as both fighters prepared for a championship bout that promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Viewers interested in catching the action can watch UFC 321 on ESPN+ PPV, with prelims starting at 10 a.m. ET, followed by the main card at 2 p.m. ET. The event not only marks an exciting day for UFC fans but also represents a defining moment for both fighters as they compete for glory in the octagon.
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