Widely tipped as the favorite, the champion, standing 1.96 m and weighing 110 kg, is nonetheless pushed hard. His opponent, 1.85 m and 105 kg, proves extremely aggressive from the outset.
Ciryl Gane retains his UFC heavyweight title. The Frenchman defeats Josh Hokit by unanimous judges' decision at the end of the five rounds of UFC 334.
The fight goes the distance. The judges unanimously side with Gane, amid boos from a large part of the crowd.
The victory counts as the first defense of the undisputed belt, according to the website MMA Junkie. Gane was elevated to champion after Tom Aspinall relinquished the title.
The former undisputed champion had to give up his crown. He remains unable to fight because of an eye injury sustained in a bout against Gane.
The Frenchman regained the title a month and a half ago, after three failed attempts. He thus fulfills a lifelong goal.
The five rounds are very intense. Gane lands some terrible blows and hopes for a K.O., without managing to finish before the distance.
He made a spectacular entrance into the UFC, with four wins in as many fights. The latest came against the experienced Derrick Lewis.
An explosive, offensive fighter, he removes his sunglasses and his United States-colored bandana only to fight. He has drawn attention above all for his antics and provocations.
The fighter from Vendée then undergoes examinations at the hospital as a precaution. Hokit also goes through the hospital at the end of the evening. Intensity, commitment, then relief: Gane remains champion.