ABU DHABI – Ciryl Gane is no stranger to big UFC fights.
Gane (13-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) gets his third shot at undisputed gold when he challenges Tom Aspinall (15-3 MMA, 8-1 UFC) for the heavyweight title in Saturday’s UFC 321 (ESPN+ pay-per-view, FX/Disney+/ESPN+) headliner at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
The former interim champion has fallen short against Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones before.
“Because I’ve got experience now, (I have) less pressure,” Gane told MMA Junkie and other reporters at Wednesday’s media day. “I remember my first big fight against Francis Ngannou because also the story telling, the fight week was huge, also like many media to do, many stuff to do. More pressure for Ngannou, a little bit less for Jones, and less for Tom Aspinall.”
Gane got to start his training camp early and rounded it off by spending the last six weeks in Dubai. “Bon Gamin” was asked what makes Aspinall different than his past opponents.
“The particular thing about Tom Aspinall is he’s well rounded, he’s a huge fighter, he’s a new breed like me,” Gane said. “Technical and fast, so he’s different.”
Could Gane be looking at his final title shot?
“I agree that people underestimate me a little bit, but less and less,” Gane said. “People are thinking a little bit, but I’m really motivated. This fight the last chance? No. If I want, I can stay until I’m 40. So, no, I’m really hungry about this fight. I’m really excited about this fight because of the challenge.”
