UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has denied social-media claims that he is leaving the promotion, saying he remains in daily discussions with the UFC. The clarification matters because Aspinall is recovering from a serious eye injury and is expected to pursue a title unification fight with France’s Ciryl Gane.

Aspinall, 33, has not fought since his October title defence against Gane ended as a no-contest after repeated eye pokes; he later required surgery for a rare eye condition and double vision. He returned to full training in June and had suggested a September rematch, while Gane won the interim heavyweight title by beating Alex Pereira and called for a bout with Aspinall. The Briton’s professional record stands at 15 wins, three defeats and one no-contest, including eight wins in 10 UFC appearances.