Reigning UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is aware of the game plans and tactics his former coach and next opponent will use against him at UFC 270. Previously, ‘The Predator’ used to train under Fernand Lopez with his former teammate Ciryl Gane ‘Bon Gamin’.

However, Ngannou and Lopez parted ways, but not on good terms. ‘The Predator’ even snubbed Gane and Lopez at a UFC event. This provided more fuel to the ongoing rivalry.

Considering Ngannou’s time spent with Lopez, the MMA journalist Megan Olivi asked the champion if his former coach will know what strategies will work to defeat him at UFC 270. Ngannou responded, “I think it’s the opposite because I think I know him pretty good you know.”

“From what happened since we weren’t together, you know I don’t think he knows anything about me. I think I am like very complete different fighter on top of what he knows about me. I know something else which is way more bigger than what he knows about me, but I know everything about him.”

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“So I don’t think this is an issue, you know. I literally like can think as him and know what is his game plan you know. I can get in his mind and visualize what exactly he’s working on, you know. Because I know the man, I know how he thinks more than he can imagine.”

Francis Ngannou is all set for his first title defense at UFC 270

‘The Predator’, one of the most vicious strikers in the heavyweight division of UFC, has a 16-3 record. He became the UFC champion by dethroning Stipe Miocic at UFC 260 in 2021. Now, he will end a near 10-month hiatus and fight former teammate Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 270 on 22nd January.

‘Bon Gamin’ is one of the best technical fighters in the promotion. He has impeccable movement and has bewildered many heavyweights en route to his undefeated 10-0 record.

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Although it can be a tough fight for Ngannou, the 35-year-old will be ready both physically and mentally.

Hence, it will be interesting to see how this clash turns out. What are your thoughts on Ngannou’s words? Are you excited about the title fight? Let us know in the comments below.