UFC 270: Ngannou vs Gane – Staff Breakdown

The MMA leader’s first pay-per-view event will be a memorable one. Touching down in Anaheim, California, UFC 270 will feature a championship doubleheader. In the marque bout, heavyweight titleholders Francis Ngannou and Ciryl Gane will clash for undisputed glory. Mexican flyweight champion Brandon Moreno will defend his title against former kingpin Deiveson Figueiredo in their trilogy match. On top of this, a full card of rising talent are set to throw down.

Our staff at VMTV have decided we will share our predicitions and takes on the fights. Check out what we had to say below!

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(c) Francis Ngannou vs (ic) Ciryl Gane – UFC heavyweight championship unification bout

From training partners to heavyweight rivals; the world will be watching when these two goliaths sqaure off in Anaheim.

As many have mentioned, this fight is an example of power vs technique. Ngannou, the reigning champion, is known for his mindblowing power punching. Gane, the interim champ, has made his mark through his flawless technical ability. Though both men’s skillsets are much deeper than what it appears at surface level, but it does come down to the big question – do you back Ngannou’s power to trump Gane’s skill?

Jake’s pick: (ic) Ciryl Gane via decision

Cauley’s pick: (c) Francis Ngannou via TKO (R2)

Jamie’s pick: (ic) Ciryl Gane via decision

Harry’s pick: (c) Francis Ngannou via KO (R2)

Darragh’s pick: (c) Francis Ngannou via KO (R3)

(c) Brandon Moreno vs (#1) Deiveson Figueiredo – UFC flyweight championship bout

The top dogs at 125lbs will fight for the third time, with the flyweight title on the line once again.

After a razor-thin draw in 2020, Brandon Moreno was able to upset Deiveson Figueiredo and capture the flyweight title. Since then, Figueiredo has relocated to Arizona to train with Henry Cejudo, in preparation for UFC 270. Will the changes to the former champ’s style be enough to regain the title? That’s not what Moreno thinks, who says he’s ready for the very best Figueiredo.

Jake’s pick: (c) Brandon Moreno via TKO (R5)

Cauley’s pick: (c) Brandon Moreno via decision

Jamie’s pick: (c) Brandon Moreno via decision

Harry’s pick: (c) Brandon Moreno via decision

Darragh’s pick: (c) Brandon Moreno via decision

Michel Pereira vs Andre Fiahlo – welterweight bout

A pair of all-action welterweights will be looking to blow the roof off the Honda Center in this featured bout.

As a late-replacement, Andre Fiahlo will be lacing up the gloves for the first time at UFC 270. The Portugal native is riding a 4-fight KO-streak, including a stoppage over UFC alum James Vick. His opponent is none other than Michel Pereira. The Brazilian’s chaotic style has been honed in during recent fights, making him a dangerous fight for the elite at 170lbs.

Jake’s pick: Michel Pereira via TKO (R3)

Cauley’s pick: Andre Fiahlo via decision

Jamie’s pick: Michel Pereira via submission (R3)

Harry’s pick: Michel Pereira via KO (R1)

Darragh’s pick: Michel Pereira via decision

Cody Stamann vs Said Nurmagomedov – bantamweight bout

Two bantamweight hopefuls looking to break into the top 15 will fight for the chance to call themselves a top contenders.

On the first downward streak of his career, Cody Stamann is prepared to get a win by any means necessary. Stood in front of him will be Said Nurmagomedov, returning after a prolonged layoff. The Russian has shown a great blend of striking and grappling ability over his short UFC tenure. If Stamann can bring the fight to the mat, will he drag the young Nurmagomedov into deep waters?

Jake’s pick: Said Nurmagomedov via decision

Cauley’s pick: Said Nurmagomedov via submission (R2)

Jamie’s pick: Said Nurmagomedov via decision

Harry’s pick: Cody Stamann via decision

Darragh’s pick: Said Nurmagomedov via decision

Michael Morales vs Trevin Giles – welterweight bout

A debuting prospect will take on a former 185lb prospect in the main card opener at UFC 270.

Despite dropping 3 of his last 6, Trevin Giles has shown plenty of potential inside the Octagon. Now, dropping to 170lbs, ‘The Problem’ Giles feels like he will do his best work. He will face Michael Morales, one of the finest prospects from the Latin America MMA scene. A DWCS alum, Morales will be looking to add to his record of 10 finishes in 12 wins. This main card opener will be fireworks!

Jake’s pick: Michael Morales via TKO (R2)

Cauley’s pick: Michael Morales via decision

Jamie’s pick: Michael Morales via KO (R1)

Harry’s pick: Trevin Giles via decision

Darragh’s pick: Michael Morales via TKO (R1)

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What are your picks for UFC 270? Let us know in the comments below!