UFC heavyweight Curtis Blaydes has publicly expressed hope for the return of former opponent Tom Aspinall, who is recovering from significant eye surgery. Aspinall, the British fighter, has not competed since October due to injuries sustained from accidental eye pokes during his fight with Ciryl Gane. These pokes caused double vision, black spots, and vertigo, forcing the no-contest ruling.

While Aspinall has resumed light training post-surgery, no return date has been set. Blaydes, who defeated Aspinall in 2022 before losing a rematch, stated, 'I hope Aspinall comes back. I'd hate to see a great athlete lose their position because of injury.' He added, 'I'm rooting.

I hope the eye rehab is going well.' Blaydes himself faces Josh Hokit at UFC 327 in Miami on Saturday.