Francis Ngannou Responds To Ciryl Gane’s Prediction For UFC 270

Francis Ngannou is sticking with his gameplan.

Ngannou, the UFC Heavyweight Champion, said Ciryl Gane’s prediction of how January 22 will go is different from his.

Gane previously told BT Sport that Ngannou’s improved over the years, but he can manage the champion’s power.
Ngannou was seemingly unamused by Gane, his former teammate, downplaying his skills when he spoke with MMA Junkie.

“He has nothing else to do. Instead of expecting to jump around and waiting for the decision, I’m sure he’s going to be like, ‘I’m going to take him to the long rounds, the deep water’ and all this. That can be his only prediction, which could be very contrary of my prediction, which is knocking him out,” he said.

Ngannou will defend his championship for the first time against Gane, a former colleague from the MMA Factory in France.

The buildup to Ngannou and Gane’s battle has been rather entertaining. Gane’s downplay comments comes after an awkward run-in backstage at UFC 268.

Gane got the title chance after defeating Derrick Lewis for the interim heavyweight championship at UFC 265.
After defeating Stipe Miocic to win the championship, Ngannou was largely anticipated to face Jon Jones in his first title defense.

If Ngannou loses to Gane, his career in the UFC might be in jeopardy, as he would be eligible for free agency.