UFC Paris is headlined by Ciryl Gane versus Tai Tuivasa.
UFC Paris takes place on Saturday, marking the UFC’s inaugural event in France. Fittingly, the main event features a heavyweight matchup between Paris’ own Ciryl Gane (10-0) and the Australian Tai “Bam Bam” Tuivasa.
This explosive heavyweight matchup offers not only a high level of entertainment but also provides gamblers with a great opportunity to make some money.
UFC Heavyweight Ciryl Gane is a large betting favorite over Tai Tuivasa
Despite his most recent fight resulting in a loss to Francis Ngannou, Gane’s stock remains as high as ever. The 32-year-old is one of the most technically sound heavyweights the sport has ever seen. His ability to control the fight at distance and frustrate his opponents in the process is very reminiscent of a prime Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson, but with higher grappling ability. Gane has three career submission victories and even attempted a slick heel hook in the Ngannou fight. Although Gane seemed to slow down in the fifth round of the fight against Ngannou, he is a proven five-round fighter that hasn’t displayed cardio issues.
Tuivasa is the gift that keeps on giving to MMA fans. From electric ring walkouts to devastating knockouts, Tuivasa knows how to bring an arena (and fans at home) to their feet. He enters this fight on a five-fight win streak, finishing each of his opponents by knockout. His most recent win came via knockout against Derrick Lewis. While much improved, Tuivasa’s striking acumen is not at Gane’s level. With that said, Tuivasa is one of the most naturally powerful punchers in UFC history and is not afraid to let his hands go, making him ever so dangerous.
UFC Paris best bet: Ciryl Gane to win inside the distance ( -150)
Tuivasa’s recent stretch of knockouts is undeniably impressive. However, victories aside, Tuivasa has been clipped badly in these bouts. His fights with Lewis and Greg Hardy both stick out, as Tuivassa was wobbled by both men before eventually weathering the storm and finding a finish of his own.
Certainly, these comeback wins are a testament to not only Tai’s durability but also his heart. The problem here is that Gane is a much different fighter than Hardy, Lewis, or anyone that Tuivasa has ever faced. Tuivasa may have his flurries, but Gane is patient and has proven to remain calm in pocket exchanges.
If Gane clips Tuivasa similarly to how Lewis or Hardy did, don’t expect Gane to rush in for the finish or to turn this fight into a brawl. Rather, Gane will probably land big shots throughout the first couple of rounds, stay patient, and eventually wear out Tuivassa to find the finish late.
Aside from that, Gane possesses the grappling upside. In his career, Tuivassa has struggled when the fight goes to the ground. Gane is generally more aggressive with both takedowns and submission attempts, while Tuivasa is more likely to try and keep the fight standing.
In front of his home crowd, UFC Paris feels like the perfect opportunity for Gane to earn himself another title shot. If he can find a finish against a very game opponent in Tuivasa, it will be hard to deny him that opportunity. Gane to win inside the distance at -150 is the best bet of the night.