Ciryl Gane Stops Alex Pereira, Claims Interim Heavyweight Gold at UFC Freedom 250.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ciryl Gane delivered one of the biggest victories of his career Sunday night, defeating Alex Pereira by second-round TKO to capture the UFC interim heavyweight championship in the co-main event of UFC Freedom 250. The French heavyweight showcased his striking precision and composure throughout the contest before finishing Pereira at the 1:27 mark of Round 2. After landing a sharp jab that dropped the former two-division champion, Gane unleashed a relentless barrage of elbows and punches that forced the referee to step in and halt the bout. The victory marks Gane's second reign as interim heavyweight champion, but this title run carries added significance after years of facing the division's elite. Entering the fight, Gane had previously shared the Octagon with Francis Ngannou, Jon Jones, and Tom Aspinall, falling short in those championship opportunities.

“I’m really proud of myself and my team,” Gane said following the win. “We knew this was possible, and tonight we proved it.” Pereira entered the matchup looking to make UFC history by becoming the promotion's first fighter to win championships in three weight classes. The Brazilian star moved up from light heavyweight after vacating his 205-pound title earlier this year in pursuit of heavyweight gold. Despite finding moments of success, including a powerful right hand late in the opening round, Pereira struggled to slow Gane's movement and diverse striking attack. Gane consistently targeted the body and legs before taking complete control in the second round.

Following the defeat, Pereira remained uncertain about his future, declining to commit to either staying at heavyweight or returning to light heavyweight. “Taking risks is what got me here,” Pereira said through an interpreter. “We’ll sit down with the team, evaluate everything, and decide the next step.” The win places Gane at the center of the heavyweight title picture while questions continue to surround undisputed champion Tom Aspinall. Aspinall has been sidelined while recovering from eye surgery and has yet to be cleared for full contact after suffering an injury in his no-contest bout against Gane last October. With the interim title now around his waist, Gane wasted little time looking ahead. “We’ll see what happens next,” Gane said. “Right now, I just want to celebrate this moment and thank everyone. Maybe the next fight can be in Paris in September.” For now, Gane has reestablished himself as one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the world and strengthened his case for another shot at undisputed UFC championship glory.