MMA: Ciryl Gane won't become UFC heavyweight champion without fighting

Dana White states Ciryl Gane must fight to earn the heavyweight title.

Published 3j5 sources✓ ConfirmedNotableupdated 2j

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The fact

The belt is vacant after Tom Aspinall's retirement, but UFC's president rejects an automatic promotion.

This decision fuels speculation about the French fighter's future in the organization.

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Auto-synthesis from 5 media sources · identified on September 19, 2026