UFC 334 in New York emerges as Alex Poatan targets Ciryl Gane By Carolina Costa
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Alex Poatan selected Madison Square Garden in New York to face Ciryl Gane in a second clash. The fighter took that stance on 14 November after Tom Aspinall formally vacated the UFC heavyweight championship due to severe eye injuries sustained in England.
A second encounter with Ciryl Gane represents the primary focus for Alex Poatan, who pointed to November as the target period for the event in the United States. UFC officials scheduled UFC 334 for 14 November at the same arena. He seeks a third title.
Title vacancy reshapes the heavyweight division after Tom Aspinall departs
After sustaining irregular strikes to his eyes during a bout in October 2025 that kept him out of the Octagon, Tom Aspinall formally vacated the 120.2 kg championship, clearing the path for Ciryl Gane to become the undisputed champion and await his initial defense.
Ciryl Gane secured the interim championship for the second time by defeating Alex Poatan in June, a result that originally earned him the right to challenge the former belt holder. With the British competitor now absent, Alex Poatan returned to the title picture in the UFC and began asking openly for the rematch.
Debut defeat drives Alex Poatan to demand an immediate rematch
The Brazilian fighter made his debut among heavyweights at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, where Ciryl Gane knocked him out in the second round. Alex Poatan disputes the stoppage and claims he absorbed illegal strikes to the back of the head. Those claims form the foundation of his push for a second fight.
The fighter stated that competing again against the French opponent represents the natural path at this stage while maintaining confidence in his tactical approach for the heaviest division.
Contract terms permit movement across multiple weight divisions
Under contract with the organization since 2021, Alex Poatan previously captured titles in the 83.9 kg middleweight class and the 93 kg light heavyweight division. His promotional record includes victories over Israel Adesanya, Jamahal Hill, Jan Błachowicz, Jiri Prochazka, Khalil Rountree Jr., Magomed Ankalaev and Sean Strickland.
The fighter explained that his UFC agreement gives him explicit permission to compete in both weight brackets. He stated that he has no hesitation about moving back to 93 kg if he encounters difficulty adjusting to the top division. His present priority remains unchanged.
A scheduled clash against Ciryl Gane in November will mark the second heavyweight appearance for Alex Poatan and provide an opportunity to avenge the initial defeat in the division.
