A champion 'dragon fish' had its eye removed to stay competition-ready.

The vibrant gold- and orange-coloured arowana underwent surgery to extract its eye for cosmetic reasons after it became uneven in Shanghai, China.

Footage shows a breeder carefully cutting away tissue with sterilised scissors and tweezers, while assistants held flashlights during the delicate procedure on August 22.

The aquatic creature had previously been crowned overall champion at the 2023 World Dragon Fish Championship and was said to be worth more than a house.

Following the contest, rumours spread that it had been sold for 1.08 million CNY (approximately 112,000 GBP), sparking heated debate online.

The owner immediately denied the claims, saying he had no plans to sell.

Experts said that eye loss in arowanas is not a disease, but a common issue linked to feeding habits, lighting, nearby movements, or fat accumulation.

The Guangdong aquarium owner who performed the operation said it lasted only a few minutes and would not affect the fish's survival.

He added: 'Such procedures are common among arowanas. This one is a champion specimen — perfect and top-notch.'

The fish's owner admitted he struggled with the decision but ultimately agreed to have the eye removed, saying it is recovering well and will be prepared to compete again next year.

He recalled that a few years ago, someone offered hundreds of thousands to millions of yuan for this fish, but he refused.

The Asian arowana is the world's most expensive aquarium fish. Its high value comes from its striking red and gold colours, and in 2009 one was reportedly sold for 300,000 USD (approximately 222,000 GBP).

In China, many middle-class buyers keep the fish as a symbol of status and good fortune.