It’s been well documented in the past that Ciryl Gane is a former training partner of heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, but after a big win over Alexander Volkov at UFC Fight Night 190 on Saturday night, the rising star stated that he has no problem fighting him.
“I’m comfortable about this matchup if this matchup is going to happen,” Gane said post-fight. “It was a shame before the title. Now, for the title, I’m really comfortable with this situation, because we’re not in the same gym. If we’re going to fight for the belt, this is beautiful for me, for him, for my coach, and the MMA Factory.”
The fight against Volkov, who has far more fights than he has and has fought many of the biggest names the heavyweight division has to offer, was a big test for Gane and getting that win under his belt appears to have given him confidence that he’s now ready to go after the title shot.
“I think today I proved it,” Gane said post-fight. “I don’t need another fight for the title shot. I think this guy Volkov was a really great challenge to prove it, and I proved it. I did it. So, tomorrow, yes, if the UFC want to match me for the title shot, I’m ready.”
As things stand, Ngannou is currently expected to fight Derrick Lewis in a title bout later this year, and Gane has no problem waiting his turn while looking to improve his skills in the meantime.
“I think we can wait,” Gane said. “This will give us time to improve in some department of myself. So I can wait, and I have a baby coming next month.”
