Despite all the GOAT talk, Ciryl Gane shut down Alex Pereira’s bid to become a three-division UFC champion. He claimed a dominant stoppage victory in their heavyweight showdown at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House South Lawn in Washington, D.C.
Gane Controls the Fight Early
The fight began with both men trading kicks and looking for openings. Gane found success behind his jab and mixed in the threat of takedowns, while Pereira landed a few calf kicks and a right hand late in the opening round.
Gane appeared to be the sharper fighter throughout the first five minutes, controlling range and landing the cleaner shots.
Massive Jab Leads to Finish
The fight changed dramatically in the second round when Gane dropped Pereira with a powerful jab. Pereira survived the initial attack, but he remained hurt as Gane poured on pressure with punches and elbows.
Referee Herb Dean eventually stepped in after Gane continued to land unanswered shots, giving the French heavyweight a statement victory.
The win earns Gane a second interim heavyweight title and puts him in line for a potential rematch with Tom Aspinall.
Octagon Interview
After the fight, Gane was all class. He told Rogan that people underestimated him and that he is a “great athlete”. When Rogan mentioned a potential fight with champ Tom Aspinall, Gane said “we will see”. What he was sure of, however, is that he wants a fight in Paris in September.