More than anything, Ciryl Gane just wants another shot at becoming UFC heavyweight champion.
After a stunning knockout of Tai Tuivasa at the UFC Paris main show, Gane discussed his future. Francis Ngannou was sidelined with injury and Jon Jones is still waiting for his first heavyweight bout. Stipe Miocic remains out of action.
While he’s never been big on calling out opponents, the 32-year-old French fighter admits welcoming somebody like Jones to heavyweight would be an ideal situation, especially considering the attention a fight of that magnitude would draw.
“To see Jon Jones in the UFC division will put more light on it, [and] The division will shine more and more,” Gane stated during the UFC’s post-fight broadcast. That’s why it’s so great to have him in this division.
” I don’t know exactly what will happen. People talk about Stipe [Miocic] against Jones, but I’m here. I’m here. I’m here.
Jones has teased his return for several months, though his most recent appearance in the cage took place more than two years ago when he defended the UFC light heavyweight title in February 2020.
Since then, Jones has bulked-up for his debut as a heavyweight. Rumors have swirled that his return could come against former champion Miocic with an interim title on the line, or perhaps he could wait until early 2023, when Ngannou is healthy enough to compete again.
Gane has been an interim champion but is open to the challenge of being a champ again. This is especially true with Ngannou’s ongoing contract issues with UFC and his injuries. Ngannou also stated that he would be free at the end.
Gane lost to Ngannou in January by decision. However, he still wants to have a rematch. This is almost guaranteed if Ngannou wins the interim title.
” I don’t know whether it will be an interim title,” Gane stated. “I don’t know when [Ngannou is] going to come back to the division. He doesn’t want to fight. I don’t know exactly. Like I said any time, anywhere, but now I’m looking for the belt.
“I understand the UFC needs to manage this situation. [Ngannou] is recovering from a major injury. I am able to accept an interim title. I would be eligible for the .”
belt.
The only other viable option for Gane appears to be fellow heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes, who tweeted “I got next” as soon as the UFC Paris main event ended.
While he’s never been in the business of turning down opponents, Gane said Blaydes isn’t a high priority right now — at least not as long as potential matchups against Jones, Miocic or Ngannou are still available.
“I think maybe Stipe or Jones [will be next],” Gane said. This is not smart. This is not smart.”
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