Francis Ngannou Defeats Ciryl Gane to Unify Heavyweight Championship at UFC 270
In an electrifying showdown at UFC 270 in Anaheim, Francis Ngannou emerged victorious, handing Ciryl Gane his first loss in the MMA arena. With a wrestling-heavy strategy, Ngannou outpointed Gane to secure the unified heavyweight championship. The judges’ scores reflected Ngannou’s dominance, with a final tally of 48-47, 48-47, 49-46 in his favor.
Ngannou’s Late Surge with Wrestling
Ciryl Gane initiated the fight with a strong performance, impressively claiming the first round on two of the three judges’ scorecards. Furthermore, Gane continued his dominance in the second round, sweeping all three cards in his favor. However, the tides shifted when Francis Ngannou showcased his ground skills, enabling him to seize control of the latter half of the fight and securing a pivotal victory.
According to Ngannou’s head coach, Erick Nicksick, the turning point was evident in Gane’s defensive reactions on the ground. Nicksick shared a lighthearted moment between himself and Ngannou at the end of the third round, where they both realized the effectiveness of their wrestling strategy. Despite entering the Octagon with significant injuries, including a grade 3 MCL tear, Ngannou’s resilience and determination were unparalleled.
Uncertain Future for Ngannou in the UFC
With this momentous win, the future for Francis Ngannou in the UFC remains uncertain. He has made his stance clear, expressing his unwillingness to compete under his current contract. Additionally, Ngannou has hinted at the possibility of transitioning to the world of boxing if his demands for a higher salary in MMA are not met.
Voicing his dissatisfaction, Ngannou revealed that he doesn’t feel like a free man and believes he hasn’t been treated well by the organization. This precarious situation has forced him to take a stand, highlighting the challenges faced by fighters in the sport.
Deiveson Figueiredo Reclaims Flyweight Crown from Brandon Moreno
In another highly anticipated clash at UFC 270, Deiveson Figueiredo regained the flyweight championship from Brandon Moreno via a unanimous decision. Surpassing their previous encounters, Figueiredo won 48-47 on all three scorecards, securing his first victory after a draw and a submission loss against Moreno.
The contentious nature of the fight sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike. According to MMADecisions.com, 17 media members scored the bout in favor of Figueiredo, while eight perceived Moreno as the winner. Interestingly, over 60 percent of fans submitted scorecards favoring Figueiredo as well. Despite the closeness of the contest, Figueiredo celebrated the hard-fought victory.
Reflecting on the grueling journey, Figueiredo acknowledged the sacrifice of being away from his family for four months. As he addressed the crowd, he expressed his readiness for a fourth encounter with Brandon Moreno, insisting on bringing the fight to Mexico.
Meanwhile, Moreno, while recognizing the fight’s competitiveness, expressed his disagreement with the result. Stating that he believed he threw better combinations with greater speed, Moreno maintained his belief that he deserved the win. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the present reality and accepted the outcome.
Conclusion
UFC 270 delivered two exhilarating title fights. Francis Ngannou’s impressive victory over Ciryl Gane showcased his adaptability and resilience in the face of injuries. Meanwhile, Deiveson Figueiredo’s reclamation of the flyweight crown from Brandon Moreno proved to be a hotly contested affair, leaving fans divided.
As both champions bask in their well-deserved triumphs, the future holds uncertainties for Ngannou, with his contractual issues and potential transition to another combat sport. Meanwhile, Figueiredo seeks to solidify his reign as the flyweight champion, eagerly eyeing a fourth bout against Moreno. The excitement and unpredictability of these fights highlight the enduring spirit and fascinating narratives that make UFC one of the most captivating sports in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the final score in the Ngannou vs. Gane fight?
The final score in the Ngannou vs. Gane fight was 48-47, 48-47, 49-46 in favor of Francis Ngannou.
2. Did Ngannou have any injuries during the fight?
Yes, Ngannou entered the fight with injuries, including a grade 3 MCL tear, as well as damage to his ACL and MPFL.
3. What are Ngannou’s future plans in the UFC?
Ngannou has expressed his unwillingness to compete under his current contract and has hinted at a potential move to boxing if his salary demands in MMA are not met.
4. How did Figueiredo win the flyweight championship from Moreno?
Figueiredo won the flyweight championship from Moreno via a unanimous decision at UFC 270.
5. Will there be a fourth fight between Figueiredo and Moreno?
Deiveson Figueiredo has expressed his desire for a fourth fight against Brandon Moreno, with hopes of arranging the bout in Mexico. However, official plans have yet to be confirmed.
