Ciryl Gane Prepared For Power Of Francis Ngannou: ‘It’s Not A Problem For Me’. – SBNATION
Gane and Ngannou will likely meet in a title unification bout at UFC 270 in January.
By Kristen King
The fight between Gane and Ngannou is one of the most intriguing in the heavyweight division, as both men have specific qualities that pose a serious threat to one another. The ‘Predator’ brings power and refined wrestling ability, while ‘Bon Gamin’ boasts speed and unique footwork.
Gane already has experience with one of those qualities from Ngannou, his former sparring partner at the MMA Factory. He recently spoke with Submission Radio and revealed that he was not concerned with the power of his opponent because of that past exposure. Gane said it was somewhat similar to that of Derrick Lewis, who is also known for his reputation of being a feared knockout artist. Gane avoided much of the attacks from Lewis and defeated him by way of third-round technical knockout to capture the interim heavyweight title at UFC 265 this past August.
“No, every time, this is not scaring me,” said Gane. “You see with Derrick Lewis, he had big knockout power too. Derrick Lewis is a beast too. But it was not a problem. When you look at the fight, I stayed inside like that with his punches. It was not a problem. A heavyweight like me, I can punch too like that with a big transfer. But no, it’s not a problem for me. This is really not scaring me.”
Gane then explained why he feels so confident going up against Ngannou. The familiarity should help, but it is not the only advantage he says he has over the reigning heavyweight champion.
