‘It’s Just Like Another Opponent, That’s It’- Ciryl Gane Says There’s No Ill Feelings Towards Francis Ngannou Ahead of UFC 270

Published 01/16/2022, 10:48 PM EST

UFC interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane spoke to TMZ in the days leading up to his fight against Francis Ngannou. The title unification bout is set to take place at UFC 270 and is the opening pay-per-view event of the year. Not to mention, the match-up is highly anticipated for several reasons apart from the riveting action it will provide.

Ngannou and Gane were former training partners who will now collide for all the glory. Additionally, Gane’s current coach at the MMA Factory, Fernand Lopez, used to be Ngannou’s coach during his come-up in the UFC. However, all the parties have walked away from each other and all that remains is the glory of being the undisputed UFC champion.

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Ngannou and Gane had an awkward run-in backstage at UFC 268 when Ngannou completely snubbed Gane. He walked past his teammate and left no doubt that both men weren’t particularly close anymore.

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Ciryl Gane feels no bad blood for Francis Ngannou

In his interview with TMZ, Ciryl Gane was about his relationship with Ngannou and whether there was bad blood between both men. ‘Bon Gamin’ refuted the claim and said that he saw Ngannou as merely another opponent he must face. Moreover, he said that the storylines ahead of the fight didn’t add any pressure heading into the fight.

“We [MMA Factory] did something I think nobody did before. So we are all really proud of my career. And the people are going to say, ‘Yeah, he is afraid’. No, I thought that every time before the fight because everything is possible in the fight.”

“I’m honest, I’m authentic and I know everything is possible in the fight. I think I’m going to win this fight again but everything is possible…No pressure, never pressure.”

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“Good luck my man [Francis Ngannou]. Do your best because I’m going to do my best… You understand exactly my feeling that I have no deal with him and it’s just like another opponent, that’s it.”

Regardless of the storylines heading into their fight, both men will put their best foot forward and deliver high-paced action. There’s a lot on the line and the opportunity to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world isn’t one either man will want to pass on.

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.

‘It’s Just Like Another Opponent, That’s It’- Ciryl Gane Says There’s No Ill Feelings Towards Francis Ngannou Ahead of UFC 270

Ciryl Gane feels no bad blood for Francis Ngannou

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