UFC Heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou, successfully defended his title for the first time after earning the unanimous decision of the judges against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270. Ngannou also unified the UFC Heavyweight title, making himself the undisputed champion. The fight, which was Ngannou’s first title defence since winning the belt from Stipe Miocic in March 2021, marked Gane’s first professional loss.

The fight went off with Gane having the upperhand, while Ngannou was patient with his moves. Gane was able to evade some of his opponent’s attacks while landing kicks and punches of his own. Gane was moving around, looking for the best opportunity to throw a jab. The second round also carried the same tempo, with Gane still on course with his jabs. Ngannou continued with his slow approach, missing a few chances to stop Gane, and still not in control.

It was in the third round that The Predator was able to shine, as he scored a takedown and was able to control the fight from the ground. Gane was able to struggle to get back on his feet, but Ngannou had him on the ground again just seconds before the end of the round. Ngannou continued with the assault in the fourth round, landing Gane on the mat twice. Ngannou had switched to wrestling at this point and was able to steer the fight in his favour. In the fifth round, Gane tried to regain control of the fight by scoring a takedown, but Ngannou was quick to take control of the situation and emerged from the fight victorious.

Ngannou later revealed, after the fight, that he had torn his ACL and MCL, two ligaments in the knee, and had it in mind to call off the fight, but he thought against it. Although Ngannou’s contract with the UFC has come to an end, he is still bound to the sport due to his position as a titleholder.

Written by: Leon Osamor