Alex Poatan could write another historic chapter in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on June 14th, when he faces Ciryl Gane at UFC Casa Branca in Washington, D.C. (USA), for the interim heavyweight title (up to 120,2 kg). If he defeats the Frenchman, the Brazilian will become the first fighter in the organization's history to win titles in three different weight classes. Beyond the possibility of this unprecedented achievement, the São Paulo native understands that the victory could have implications for much more than just the sport.
Former middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) and light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) champion, Poatan is already part of the select list of athletes who have won belts in two divisions. However, for the São Paulo native, the quest for a third title has a special meaning.
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In an interview with 'UFC.com.br', Poatan explained that this achievement also represents an opportunity to broaden the reach of his own life story, especially because of everything he has overcome outside the octagon, such as his fight against alcoholism. According to the Brazilian, the new belt can further strengthen his legacy and serve as inspiration for people facing similar battles.
“Being a champion in three categories will leave a great legacy. All of this will help tell my story, where I came from, everything I've achieved, the fight against alcoholism. The third belt will open doors for me to show this to more people,” he stated.
Alex Poatan and Ciryl Gane's UFC numbers
In just over four years with the organization, Alex Poatan , former middleweight and light heavyweight champion, has amassed 12 fights, with ten wins and eight knockouts, in addition to seven post-event bonuses, including six Performance of the Night bonuses and one Fight of the Night bonus.
On the other side, Ciryl Gane , one of the most technically skilled names in the division, has ten wins in 13 fights in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), with six victories by stoppage. Seeking the undisputed title, the Frenchman has already been the interim champion of the division.
Full UFC White House fight card
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje – title unification fight
Heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg): Alex Poatan vs. Ciryl Gane – fight for the interim title
Bantamweight (up to 61,2 kg): Sean O'Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler
Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): Bo Nickal x Kyle Daukaus
Featherweight (up to 65,7 kg): Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia
Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.
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