Abu Dhabi, October 25, 2025
News Summary
UFC 321 is set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, featuring the heavyweight title match between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane. Aspinall defends his title for the first time after an impressive knockout win, while Gane looks to reclaim the championship he lost previously. This event promises excitement with two title fights, including a co-main event for the women’s strawweight championship between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern.
Abu Dhabi to Host UFC 321 with Aspinall vs. Gane
The highly anticipated UFC 321 is set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The main event will feature UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall defending his title for the first time against former interim champion Ciryl Gane.
Aspinall, who claimed the interim title in July 2022, holds a professional record of 15 wins and 3 losses. Following the retirement of Jon Jones, he has ascended to the status of undisputed champion. Aspinall is fresh from a first-round knockout victory over Curtis Blaydes, which occurred 15 months ago.
Weighing in at 255 pounds, Aspinall is 7.5 pounds heavier than Gane, who weighed 247.5 pounds. Gane has an impressive professional record of 13 wins and 2 losses and is currently the number one contender in the heavyweight division. He has recently secured two consecutive victories but is eager to reclaim a title he lost to Francis Ngannou in 2022 and to Jon Jones in March 2023.
UFC 321 will also feature a co-main event showcasing a bout between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern for the vacant women’s strawweight championship. Jandiroba is currently on a five-fight win streak, while Dern has experienced a mixed record of 2-2 in her last four fights.
Aspinall has garnered a reputation for a speedy fight style, holding the UFC record for the shortest average fight time at just 2 minutes and 2 seconds. Every one of his professional victories has come by stoppage, showcasing his finishing ability. While Aspinall’s strengths lie in both striking power and grappling, Gane is known for his striking accuracy, which stands at an impressive 61.3%. Experts predict that despite Gane’s technical prowess in striking, Aspinall’s knockout power and grappling skills may give him an edge in the upcoming contest.
Fans will be able to catch the action live on ESPN+ PPV. The event will kick off with prelims at 10 a.m. ET, leading into the main card set to begin at 2 p.m. ET.
Event Details
- Event: UFC 321
- Date: October 25, 2025
- Location: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
- Main Event: Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane
- Co-Main Event: Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern
- Aspinall Record: 15-3
- Gane Record: 13-2
Key Matchup Insights
- Aspinall: 255 lbs, knockout power, grappling skills, fastest average fight time (2:02).
- Gane: 247.5 lbs, 61.3% striking accuracy, former interim champion.
Event Significance
With two title fights featured prominently on the card, UFC 321 emphasizes its importance in the context of the heavyweight division and women’s strawweight championship. This event will mark a pivotal moment in both champions’ careers as they look to solidify their legacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UFC 321?
UFC 321 is a mixed martial arts event that will feature two title fights, including Tom Aspinall defending his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane.
Where will UFC 321 take place?
The event will occur at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
When is UFC 321 scheduled?
UFC 321 is set to take place on October 25, 2025.
What are the main fights on the card?
The main event is Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title, with the co-main event featuring Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern for the vacant women’s strawweight championship.
Key Features of UFC 321
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane |
| Co-Main Event | Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern |
| Date | October 25, 2025 |
| Location | Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi |
| Aspinall’s Record | 15 wins, 3 losses |
| Gane’s Record | 13 wins, 2 losses |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
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