#2. Robert Whittaker vs. Marvin Vettori – UFC Paris co-main event
Robert Whittaker and Marvin Vettori are in a tough spot in the middleweight division. Both fighters have come up short against reigning champion Israel Adesanya twice already, and are likely quite a few wins away from challenging 'The Last Stylebender' in potential trilogy bouts.
Whittaker currently occupies the No.1 spot in the 185-pound rankings, while Vettori sits at No.3. A fight between the middleweight duo is the only course of action in the division. Additionally, the stylistic matchup is phenomenal.
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They were initially slated to square off at UFC 275. Unfortunately, 'The Reaper' picked up an injury during training camp and the bout was removed from the card. The matchup has reportedly been moved to a later date, with Whittaker calling for the fight to be re-booked for UFC Paris.
The stakes will be massive going into a Robert Whittaker vs. Marvin Vettori bout. Whoever comes out on the losing end will be so far off the title that they might have to consider switching weight classes if they truly want to become a UFC champion.
Meanwhile, the victor will keep his hopes of a trilogy bout with Israel Adesanya alive. With both Whittaker and Vettori currently in their prime, this is likely the most important fight of their careers so far.
#1. Ciryl Gane vs. Tai Tuivasa – UFC Paris main event
The main event for UFC Paris has already been confirmed. The face of French MMA at the moment, Ciryl Gane, will look to return to winning ways when he takes on surging Australian heavyweight and fan-favorite Tai Tuivasa when they square off at the Accor Arena on September 3.
Gane was handed the first loss of his professional career in January earlier this year, against reigning heavyweight king and former teammate Francis Ngannou. Despite being the betting favorite going into the title unification bout, he was outwrestled in the final three rounds by Ngannou, who came away with a unanimous decision victory.
Tuivasa is arguably the most favorable matchup for Gane in the top five. 'Bam Bam' prefers to stand-and-bang just like the Frenchman, but technically, is nowhere near as skilled. While he has been shown to have one-punch knockout power, the Australian will likely struggle against the movement and accuracy of the former Muay Thai champion.
Gane will be itching to return to winning ways in his next outing. Many believe that if he can improve his defensive wrestling, he could be a real problem for every heavyweight on the planet.
'Bon Gamin' is coming for undisputed gold, and a main event slot in his nation's capital is the perfect platform to stake his claim for another title shot.