Francis Ngannou believes that Ciryl Gane presents a formidable stylistic challenge for Alex Pereira.
Pereira is set to make his heavyweight debut against Gane for the interim title in the co-main event of UFC Freedom 250, which is scheduled for June 14 on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C.
Pereira, often referred to as “Poatan,” has experienced a rapid ascent in combat sports, establishing an impressive track record in just 12 UFC appearances. Remarkably, in just over two years, he made history by becoming the promotion’s ninth two-division champion, holding both the middleweight and light heavyweight titles.
Now, the 38-year-old Brazilian is on the verge of achieving even greater historical significance. A victory over Gane would make him the first fighter in UFC history to win titles across three different weight classes. Given his potent striking abilities, many observers believe this milestone is within his grasp.
However, Francis Ngannou offers a different perspective. The former UFC heavyweight champion, who has previously defeated Ciryl Gane, suggests that Alex Pereira might face difficulties securing a win at the White House event.
Francis Ngannou States Ciryl Gane Presents Major Problems for Alex Pereira
In a recent interview with Helen Yee, prior to his MMA return against Philipe Lins at the MVP MMA card on May 16, Francis Ngannou shared his thoughts on the upcoming matchup between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane.
While “The Predator” acknowledged Pereira’s strengths, he predicted that Gane could pose a stylistic nightmare for the former two-division champion, particularly with his move up to a heavier division.
“I think Ciryl has more tools, and then Alex Pereira has his own style. Ciryl Gane has his own style,” Ngannou stated. “For me, and I might be wrong, but it’s not a good matchup for Alex Pereira in terms of style, basically if he’s moving up to the division and has to face a heavyweight who is even lighter on his feet.”
Pereira was last seen in action at UFC 320 in October, where he secured a first-round knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev to regain the light heavyweight title. His UFC record stands at 10-2, with notable wins against Jiri Prochazka, Israel Adesanya, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
Meanwhile, Ciryl Gane is coming off a no-contest result after accidentally poking heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall in the eye during their title bout at UFC 321 in October, rendering Aspinall unable to continue. “Bon Gamin” holds a UFC record of 10-2 with one no-contest, including victories over Derrick Lewis, Sergey Spivak, and Tai Tuivasa.
