Tom Aspinall has decided to vacate his UFC heavyweight title as he continues to deal with issues with his eyes.
The Brit confirmed his decision via a statement on social media on Monday, saying he was "gutted." Aspinall said he had been back sparring and had a new fight date locked in, but a further accident in training brought a further set-back.
Aspinall has not fought since his no contest against Ciryl Gane last October, when he was poked in the eyes. He was forced to retire from the fight.
He has since had several surgeries in both his eyes.
"Ongoing complications with my eyes mean I cannot get medically cleared to fight right now," Aspinall said.
"I've had multiple surgeries, accidents and infections, and done everything possible to get back to competing.
"I had previously agreed to a fight date and was back sparring, feeling great and ready to compete when an accident caused further damage to my right eye. This means more time away from the sport, and right now, the timing of my return is unclear."