“Never Saw That Eye Again” – Michael Bisping Advises Tom Aspinall to Not Make Major Mistake

UFC legend Michael Bisping reflects on his own eye injury while warning Tom Aspinall of the risks of fighting with an injury.

“Never Saw That Eye Again” – Michael Bisping Advises Tom Aspinall to Not Make Major Mistake

Michael Bisping warns Tom Aspinall of fighting with injured eye (via MMA Fighting, BBC)

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Michael Bisping’s eye injury is regarded as one of the most inspiring stories in modern MMA, defined by perseverance at the elite level. While the achievement remains remarkable, it also carried serious risks tied to competing with impaired vision in a dangerous sport. Those dangers have resurfaced recently, as Bisping highlighted similar concerns to British compatriot and heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.

Bisping lost vision in his right eye after suffering a detached retina during his 2013 loss to Vitor Belfort. Despite the severity of the injury, he continued fighting for nearly three more years at the highest level. During that period, he captured the UFC middleweight title from Luke Rockhold and defeated Anderson Silva in 2016, all while effectively competing with vision in only one eye.

Aspinall encountered a comparable situation at UFC 321 during his fight against Ciryl Gane. In the first round, Aspinall was struck by a double eye poke that immediately compromised his vision. Unable to see clearly, he could not continue, so the contest was stopped. The incident renewed discussion of eye safety, with Bisping referencing his own experiences and the consequences of continuing to fight while injured.

My retina was re-attached after it was detached against Vitor Belfort, and then it re-detached, and then they fixed it again, and then it got glaucoma, because once you start messing around with the eyes, or any part of your body, it’s never the same again.

Michael Bisping via YouTube

Medical evaluations revealed Aspinall developed bilateral traumatic Brown’s syndrome, causing double vision, restricted eye movement, and notable loss of visual field from damage to the superior oblique tendon in both eyes. The injury required careful management and a sensitive recovery phase. Given the seriousness, Bisping warned Aspinall not to repeat the same mistake he made by rushing back too soon.

Medical science has improved. In my career, it wasn’t saved by medical science. They did their best, but ultimately I did get blind. One thing you can’t do with an eye is rush back. That is the one big lesson that I learned, because I rushed back too soon and I never saw that eye again.

Michael Bisping via YouTube

Bisping has played a notable role in Aspinall’s career beyond shared nationality. The former middleweight champion has consistently supported Aspinall’s rise through the heavyweight division. He has regularly spoken positively about his fellow Brits’ skill set and championship potential. Their connection reflects a broader mentorship dynamic, with ‘The Count’ offering guidance shaped by his own experiences.

Over time, Bisping’s eye injury has become a defining part of his identity and legacy in MMA. He hid the full extent of his vision loss from the UFC for years while continuing to compete at the highest level. That decision shaped both his career and his perspective after retiring. Now, as Tom Aspinall faces a similar eye setback, Bisping’s history stands as a clear example of resilience and the lasting consequences of risk.

Tom Aspinall talks about his approach heading into the future

Tom Aspinall entered UFC 321 as one of the most popular fighters in the heavyweight division. His first title defense ended in a no-contest due to an eye injury, leaving some fans critical and calling him out for quitting. The scrutiny prompted him to promise changes in his demeanor and approach. Aspinall committed to addressing public perception and refining his mindset before returning to the octagon.

Tom Aspinall
Tom Aspinall (via MMA Fighting)

Signs of that shift emerged during a recent heated exchange with Ciryl Gane, where Tom Aspinall used sharper language than usual. The moment highlighted a more assertive side, in contrast to his normally calm persona. Following the incident, he outlined further corrections he plans to make. These include discipline, focus, and measured behavior ahead of his next fight.

I’m ready to get back, but my health has gotta be right first. I ain’t gonna do anything compromised. I’m not gonna let my ego take over. Everything’s got to be right. So when the time is right, however that looks, whenever that is, that’s the plan.

Tom Aspinall via One on One MMA

Tom Aspinall has been known for his politeness and respectful treatment of opponents inside the cage. However, the aftermath of UFC 321 appears to have reshaped his outlook. While still committed to sportsmanship, he now balances respect with greater awareness of public perception. The experience reinforced the importance of mental preparation alongside physical recovery in his career.

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