Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has publicly supported current titleholder Tom Aspinall amid the ongoing fallout from the controversial ending to his UFC 321 bout with Ciryl Gane.

The heavyweight title fight in Abu Dhabi was declared a no-contest after Gane accidentally poked Aspinall in both eyes during the opening round, leaving the champion unable to continue. The incident sparked widespread debate across the MMA community, with fans and fighters divided over how it was handled.

“Tom’s a warrior, he just got an unfortunate break,” said Ngannou, according to Bloody Elbow. His show of support added weight to the ongoing discussion, particularly given Ngannou’s status as a former champion and one of the most respected figures in the division.

Aspinall’s team thanked Ngannou for his words while confirming that the British fighter is recovering and awaiting medical clearance. Gane’s coach also addressed the controversy, insisting the eye poke was accidental and expressing hope for a rematch once both fighters are ready.

The UFC is expected to review the incident before determining the next step for the heavyweight division. A potential rematch between Aspinall and Gane remains under consideration, depending on the champion’s recovery timeline.

Aspinall, who became undisputed champion earlier this year following Jon Jones’ retirement, was making his first title defence at UFC 321. The no-contest result has turned into one of the sport’s most discussed moments of the year, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement and clearer rules regarding accidental fouls.