India, Sept. 14 -- Tom Aspinall has declared that he is relinquishing the UFC heavyweight title due to difficulties in obtaining medical clearance to compete again, stemming from a persistent eye injury.

The 33-year-old Brit has not participated in a fight since October, when his initial title defense concluded as a no-contest in the first round, following multiple eye pokes delivered by Ciryl Gane.

Aspinall could not proceed with the fight that evening in Abu Dhabi, and the following months required several eye surgeries. Although Aspinall eventually resumed training, UFC President Dana White suggested on Saturday that the organization may consider stripping the Manchester fighter of his title.

On Monday morning, Aspinall issued a sta...