Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane will go head-to-head in the main event of UFC 285 this weekend to decide the new heavyweight champion. The bout sees Jones returning to the cage after a three-year hiatus spent building up his body to compete at the heavier weight class.
Despite the former light heavyweight champion's inactivity, he is currently a -165 favorite. Gane will enter the bout as a +135 underdog and will be hoping to add his opponent's legendary name to his resume of victories.
With the fight edging closer, predictions have been flooding the MMA-verse online. Francis Ngannou recently shared his prediction, with 'The Predator' stating that if the version of Jon Jones that fans all know shows up against Ciryl Gane, then a TKO finish is likely. Otherwise, Ngannou believes that the fight will be decided by the judges.
Watch Ngannou's interview with 'The Schmo' below:
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Prominent MMA analyst Luke Thomas believes that Jon Jones' age combined with his increased size will slow the former champion down noticeably. Thomas stated that the game plan of the 35-year-old 'Bones' will be crucial.
Watch the breakdown below:
UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling's head coach, Ray Longo, recently stated that he believes Jones will try and outstrike Ciryl Gane. He predicted that 'Bones' will be dominated on the feet and be forced to grapple.
Watch the video below from 1:08:05:
Daniel Cormier believes Ciryl Gane is the biggest challenge for Jon Jones at heavyweight
Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones shared a heated rivalry that spanned over several years. The pair faced off twice, with 'Bones' defeating Cormier on both occasions. However, their second fight was changed to a no-contest following Jones testing positive for PEDs.
Cormier has moved into the UFC commentary booth since his retirement, and co-hosts a weekly MMA show with former NFL player Ryan Clark called DC & RC.
'DC' recently broke down Jones' matchup with Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 and stated that the Frenchman presents the biggest challenge for Jones at heavyweight. Cormier believes that the size, speed and agility of 'Bon Gamin' will provide 'Bones' with serious problems.
During a recent episode of DC & RC, Cormier stated:
"In terms of the challenge, I presented some unique challenges [to Jones]. But I wasn't 6'4". I wasn't 255 pounds and move like I fight at 135 pounds. That's where the issues for Jones lie. The agility of Ciryl Gane... and be as active and efficient at that weight... Ciryl Gane, for me, is the biggest challenge to Jones at 265 pounds."
Watch the video below: