The UFC has announced a blockbuster heavyweight co-main event for its March 22, 2025, card at The O2 Arena in London, England. British powerhouse Tom Aspinall will face French striking specialist Ciryl Gane in a clash that promises to deliver fireworks. This fight has major implications for the heavyweight division, with the winner likely securing a title shot. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting matchup and what to expect.
Fight Details
- Event: UFC Fight Night (Co-Main Event)
- Fighters: Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane
- Weight Class: Heavyweight (265 lbs)
- Date: March 22, 2025 (Saturday)
- Time: Co-main event starts around 21:30 UTC.
- Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England.
Tom Aspinall: The British Phenom
Tom Aspinall (16-3-0) is one of the most exciting heavyweights in the UFC. Known for his explosive striking, slick grappling, and incredible speed for his size, Aspinall has quickly risen through the ranks.
- Recent Fights:
- Knocked out Alexander Volkov in the first round at UFC Fight Night 220.
- Submitted Sergey Spivak with a rear-naked choke at UFC 295.
- Strengths:
- Lightning-fast hands and knockout power.
- High-level Brazilian jiu-jitsu with 9 submission wins.
- Excellent footwork and movement for a heavyweight.
Aspinall will have the home crowd behind him as he looks to secure a statement victory and move closer to a title shot.
Ciryl Gane: The French Striking Specialist
Ciryl “Bon Gamin” Gane (13-2-0) is one of the most technically skilled heavyweights in the UFC. With a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing, Gane combines precision striking with surprising agility for a man of his size.
- Recent Fights:
- Defeated Tai Tuivasa via knockout at UFC Fight Night 230.
- Lost a close decision to Jon Jones in a title fight at UFC 285.
- Strengths:
- Elite striking with a diverse arsenal of kicks, knees, and punches.
- Exceptional footwork and ability to control distance.
- Solid takedown defense and ability to keep fights standing.
Gane will be looking to bounce back from his loss to Jones and prove he’s still a top contender in the heavyweight division.
What to Expect
This fight is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup, with both fighters bringing unique strengths to the table.
- Aspinall’s Game Plan:
- Use his speed and power to close the distance and land big shots.
- Look for takedowns and use his grappling to control Gane on the ground.
- Avoid getting into a prolonged striking battle with Gane.
- Gane’s Game Plan:
- Use his superior striking to keep Aspinall at range and pick him apart.
- Stuff takedowns and punish Aspinall with counters.
- Use his footwork to avoid Aspinall’s power shots and tire him out.
The outcome of this fight will likely come down to whether Aspinall can impose his grappling or if Gane can keep the fight standing and outpoint his opponent.
Fight Prediction
This is a highly competitive matchup, but Gane’s striking and ability to control distance give him a slight edge. However, Aspinall’s power and grappling make him a live underdog.
- Prediction: Ciryl Gane by unanimous decision.
- Key Factors:
- Gane’s striking and ability to keep the fight at range.
- Aspinall’s power and ability to secure takedowns.
Undercard Highlights
While the co-main event is a highlight of the card, the rest of the event is stacked with exciting matchups:
- Main Event: Leon Edwards vs. Sean Brady (Welterweight).
- Featured Bout: Paddy Pimblett vs. Drew Dober (Lightweight).
- Prelim Headliner: Molly McCann vs. Joanne Wood (Women’s Flyweight).
Also read about UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Brady Welterweight Bout
How to Watch
Don’t miss this action-packed event! Tune in to sportsraces.live for live updates, commentary, and analysis.
Conclusion
The UFC co-main event on March 22, 2025, promises to be a thrilling clash between two of the heavyweight division’s most exciting fighters. Whether it’s Aspinall’s power and grappling or Gane’s striking and footwork that prevails, this fight is sure to deliver high-level MMA action.
Who do you think will win? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow MMA fans!