“Well-rounded” Ciryl Gane claims Jon Jones will face more problems against him than Francis Ngannou
Ciryl Gane reacted to his matchup against Jon Jones for HW title at UFC 285. Gane also claimed to be well-rounded enough to be more worrisome for Jones than Francis was.
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Ciryl Gane after winning Interim HW title (Image source - MMA Fighting)
The MMA world was taken aback when the UFC announced Francis Ngannou’s exit from the promotion. The Cameroonian champion was replaced by Ciryl Gane as Jon Jones’ opponent upon his return at UFC 285. On Sunday, Ciryl Gane reacted to his upcoming title fight scheduled on March 4.
The former Interim HW champion, Ciryl Gane is getting a second shot at the HW championship but this time against Jon Jones. The French fighter has an impressive resume and was undefeated till his first championship defeat against Francis Ngannou via decision. Gane’s second title opportunity came as a result of Ngannou’s departure from UFC.
Upon being asked about his advantages over Francis in a fight against Jones, the Frenchman replied, “good footwork, more well-rounded“. Gane also mentioned that his fighting style was very similar to Jones’ style due to his extensive background in kickboxing. Both Jones and Gane are highly accomplished kickboxers while Jones is a division one wrestler with a lifetime of experience inside the cage.
Gane seemed excited about the fight and is also expecting a positive outcome and a title on his shoulders by the end of March 4. The MMA community has had mixed feelings because of the departure of Francis Ngannou. One of the reporters asked him if he felt surprised when Ngannou didn’t re-sign the contract with the UFC. “Yes, because I’ve heard a lot about the things UFC has done for him,” replied the Frenchman.
Stipe Miocic reacts to Ciryl Gane vs Jon Jones at UFC 285
The UFC has reached a tricky position ahead of the UFC 285 announcements. The upper echelon of the HW division has been very indecisive amid contract disputes with Francis Ngannou. While fighters from the lower rankings are starting to pile up, the division needs a new defending champion.
Stipe Miocic tweeted after the announcement of UFC 285 to express his interest in the winner of Jones vs Gane. “March 4th – I like it. I got winner in July,” the 40-year-old veteran aims to return in July after his loss to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260. Stipe Miocic (20-4) is considered the greatest heavyweight in the UFC.
Meanwhile, Ariel Helwani has announced to host Francis Ngannou on a special Tuesday edition of his podcast, The MMA Hour to address questions about the fighter’s departure and his future out of UFC. The HW division in UFC would miss the possible greatness Francis was expected to achieve.
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Prateek Athanur
(2974 Articles Published)