Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane: Clash of Titans in Abu Dhabi
Heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall finally returns to the octagon to face former interim champion Ciryl Gane this Saturday in Abu Dhabi. The fight, which promises to be a high-caliber spectacle, will be broadcast on ESPN PPV. Aspinall, known for his efficiency in the octagon, holds the record for the shortest average fight time in the UFC, with only 2 minutes and 2 seconds. In addition, he has won all his professional MMA fights by finish. He will face Gane, the fourth most accurate heavyweight in UFC history, who comes with a streak of two consecutive victories.
I think this fight will be a lot like Gane’s loss against Jon Jones in 2023. It just won’t end as quickly as that submission in the first round. The fight will last as long as Aspinall needs to take Gane down. Gane has power, and I’m not saying he doesn’t have a chance. There’s always a chance with that kind of power. But he doesn’t usually knock people out early in fights. Tom is patient and will find his opportunity.
Anthony Smith
Betting Analysis According to the odds, Aspinall is the favorite to win inside the distance (-800). Aspinall is expected to use his striking before seeking the takedown, and if he manages to take the fight to the ground, the finish for Gane could be imminent.I think it will be relatively close for the first two rounds, with a lot of reading and trap-setting between them. But then Tom’s speed will begin to take over as the fight progresses, and that first penetrating step with his right hand will be difficult for Ciryl to stop. That right hand will be the punch that finally takes Gane down.
Din Thomas
Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern: Strawweight Championship Battle
In the co-main event, Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern will compete for the vacant strawweight championship. Jandiroba, ranked number 2, arrives with the longest winning streak in the division, with five won fights. Dern, for her part, seeks to repeat her victory at UFC 256 five years ago, when she defeated Jandiroba by unanimous decision.
Dern will be outstruck by Jandiroba during the first two rounds, but Jandiroba will tire in that process. Dern’s pressure, determination, and competitiveness will see her win the last three rounds and leave with the belt, 48-47. Betting Analysis Jandiroba is considered a valuable bet (+135). Both competitors are world-class on the ground, and the fight is also quite even on the feet. The difference is that Dern tends to throw somewhat wild punches on the feet, which leaves her open to counterattacks. Jandiroba has been more impressive with better competition in her last fights; with underdog odds, Jandiroba is expected to pull off the upset.Jandiroba is a fighter with heart, but Dern is better. Mackenzie is better in the main way Jandiroba wins fights. It’s not that Jandiroba can’t strike, but that’s not how she usually gets her wins. Dern can handle anything Jandiroba does on the ground, and is much more powerful on her feet.
Anthony Smith
