Tom Aspinall is set to challenge Ciryl Gane for the UFC heavyweight championship on October 25 in Abu Dhabi. As anticipation builds around this matchup, a recent video has resurfaced showing Gane struggling in a wrestling session with UFC middleweight Nassourdine Imavov, stirring discussion among fans about the upcoming fight.

Video Highlights Ciryl Gane’s Wrestling Difficulties

A clip shared by @Home_of_Fight on X captured Ciryl Gane sparring with Nassourdine Imavov, revealing moments where Gane appeared to have trouble countering Imavov’s wrestling tactics. This footage caught the attention of UFC followers, sparking a variety of reactions that questioned Gane’s defensive capabilities against grappling opponents.

Fans eagerly debated the implications for Gane’s matchup against Tom Aspinall, with many predicting a swift conclusion in Aspinall’s favor. One spectator stated,

“I’ve got a feeling Gane’s gonna have a lot of trouble with Tom. First round finish incoming.”

Another added,

“Tom [Aspinall] by any way he wants,”

while a third commented,

“Why they post this? Imagine a 250-pounder on him. He’s cooked.”

Tom Aspinall Aims to Remove Ciryl Gane from Title Contention

Following Jon Jones’ retirement, Tom Aspinall was elevated from interim to undisputed UFC heavyweight champion. Ciryl Gane, a seasoned contender who has twice vied for the undisputed heavyweight title, stands as Aspinall’s first title defense challenger. The stakes are high as both fighters seek to establish dominance in the division.

Aspinall shared his perspective on their rivalry and forthcoming fight in a recent YouTube video. He noted,

“This is the fourth time that we’ve been matched up together… We are matched up, on the 25th of October, Abu Dhabi. Me and Ciryl, the fourth attempt is here, and this is Ciryl’s third title shot. So, we are going to try and get rid of Ciryl Gane from the title picture for good.”

He further described the unique nature of their fight styles, saying,

“We both have a niche style for heavyweights. We don’t fight like heavyweights, both of us. So, this could be the fastest, the best-moving heavyweight fight that anybody’s ever seen. We’re both great movers, we’re both light on our feet, we’re both elusive, so this is going to be great.”

Matchup Promises a Dynamic Heavyweight Clash in Abu Dhabi

The heavyweight clash between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane holds considerable significance for the UFC landscape. As Aspinall works to solidify his place as the dominant champion, Gane aims to reclaim his spot among the division’s elite. With both fighters known for their agility and distinctive fighting approaches, the bout in Abu Dhabi is expected to deliver an unusually fast-paced and technically intriguing heavyweight encounter.

The resurfaced wrestling footage has added to the intrigue, highlighting perceived vulnerabilities in Gane’s game that Aspinall could exploit. Fans and analysts will be watching closely on October 25 to see if Aspinall’s prediction of ending Gane’s title hopes holds true, or if Gane will overcome his past struggles and emerge victorious in this pivotal showdown.