Summary
Alex Poatan face off against Ciryl Gane . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.
In full preparation to compete for the interim heavyweight belt (up to 120,2 kg) at the expected UFC at the White House, Alex Poatan will have an interesting challenge to deal with. Ciryl Gane , the Brazilian's opponent, is not only one of the top fighters in the world, but has also become known for committing numerous fouls in many fights. Despite the controversies, the Frenchman does not seem concerned about changing his fighting style. He spoke about the subject in an interview with 'New York Sports' last Monday (11).
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The issue became more evident after the confrontation with Tom Aspinall last October. He poked the Englishman in the eyes with his fingers at the end of the first round, preventing the champion from continuing the fight and resulting in a No Contest. When speaking about the incident, he shrugged it off and didn't see the situation as alarming.
“Unfortunately, this happens at every event. It’s nothing special. So, unfortunately, I landed my middle kick, and when you land that kick, you also land with your hand. And he came at me, and the first thing that came to mind was his face, so I tried to push his face away. My fingers just grazed his eyes. That’s MMA,” Gane replied, laughing.
CIRYL GANE 🇫🇷 ET ALEX PEREIRA ON FAIT FACE DEVANT LA MAISON BLANCHE 🔥 #FREEDOM250 | via @ufc pic.twitter.com/qqRJoX8PIL
— La Sueur (@LaSueur_off) May 6, 2026
Poatan's opponent doubted Aspinall's decision to withdraw from the fight.
Tom Aspinall receiving treatment at the hospital after UFC 321. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube
Gane took the opportunity to question the interruption of the fight. At the time, fans in the arena even booed Aspinall for not returning to the duel. Subsequently, the Englishman underwent surgery on both eyes to recover from the injuries sustained due to the stoppage.
“At that moment, I was frustrated. Despite that, I’m alive, without injuries, I can continue training and doing my job… But yes, at that moment, I was a little frustrated because I thought it was possible to continue the fight. I kept thinking about everything I did to prepare for the fight, but that’s the sport – it’s okay,” he concluded.
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