Francis Ngannou produced a wrestling-heavy performance to beat Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 to defend his UFC heavyweight title.
Ngannou earned his sixth consecutive victory inside the famed Octagon after out-pointing Gane in the main-event of UFC 270.
The fight began with Gane initiating the clinch. He kept his distance from Ngannou, who performed a couple of mini flurries but to no devastating effect.
Gane fought smart, moving away from Ngannou's power and striking from range.
In the second round, both men exchanged leg-kicks. Gane stamped his authority on the bout, clipping Ngannou with a strike to the head.
Ngannou, though, turned the tide as he implemented a wrestling strategy which proved crucial.
He landed a huge slam and had control from top position while attempting submissions.
Gane continued to attack with his legs, but Ngannou landed another takedown as he controlled the round.
Gane then recorded a takedown himself and attempted a leg lock. However, Ngannou reversed the position and enjoyed control, but failed to inflict significant damage.
But Ngannou's grappling in the third, fourth and fifth round saw him edge out Gane on the scorecards.
His win in Anaheim, California, marks the first defence of his UFC heavyweight crown having captured the belt in his last appearance against Stipe Miocic.
The victory improved Ngannou's record to 17-3 (12-2 in the UFC).
Topics: UFC, Francis Ngannou
Nasir Jabbar