Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane: Main Card Predictions

The anticipation for UFC 321 is building, featuring a thrilling main card with significant matchups that will impact the landscape of multiple divisions. Headlined by the heavyweight clash between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane, this event promises to deliver high-stakes action and potential title changes.

Main Card Overview

The main card includes five compelling bouts:

• Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane – Heavyweight Championship
• Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern – Vacant Strawweight Championship
• Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Mario Bautista – Bantamweight Bout
• Alexander Volkov vs. Jailton Almeida – Heavyweight Bout
• Aleksandar Rakić vs. Azamat Murzakanov – Light Heavyweight Bout

Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane

This matchup is pivotal for both fighters. Aspinall, the current undisputed heavyweight champion, aims to defend his title against former interim champion Gane. Analysts predict a dominant performance from Aspinall based on his recent success and fighting style.

Expert Predictions

• Drew Beaupré: Aspinall is favored to win, owing to his ability to finish fights quickly.
• Zain Bando: Believes Aspinall must establish his dominance to solidify his reputation as the top heavyweight.

Verdict: Both experts unanimously favor Aspinall.

Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern

This fight for the vacant strawweight title features Jandiroba and Dern, who have faced each other before. Dern’s confidence will be tested against Jandiroba, who has shown consistent improvement since their last encounter.

Expert Predictions

• Drew Beaupré: Forecasts a Jandiroba victory to avenge her previous loss.
• Zain Bando: Thinks Dern will repeat her success and secure the championship.

Verdict: Split prediction, 1-1.

Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Mario Bautista

This bantamweight bout is crucial for Nurmagomedov as he seeks redemption following his first career defeat. Bautista aims to disrupt the division with a strong performance.

Expert Predictions

• Drew Beaupré: Predicts Nurmagomedov will prevail and reestablish his title aspirations.
• Zain Bando: Expects Nurmagomedov’s wrestling will be a decisive factor in the fight.

Verdict: Unanimous for Nurmagomedov.

Alexander Volkov vs. Jailton Almeida

This heavyweight matchup features Volkov, who is looking to rebound from past defeats, and Almeida, who faces a significant challenge. Volkov’s experience could play a vital role in the outcome.

Expert Predictions

• Drew Beaupré: Chose Volkov, noting his established track record and skills.
• Zain Bando: Also favors Volkov, cautioning against underestimating Almeida.

Verdict: Unanimous for Volkov.

Aleksandar Rakić vs. Azamat Murzakanov

In the light heavyweight division, Rakić seeks to end a losing streak against the undefeated Murzakanov. This bout is pivotal for both fighters as they navigate their careers.

Expert Predictions

• Drew Beaupré: Suggests Murzakanov may be stepping up too soon in competition.
• Zain Bando: Expects Rakić to capitalize on his experience and regain momentum.

Verdict: Split prediction, 1-1.

El-Balad will provide further analysis and updates as the event approaches, ensuring fans stay informed about UFC 321 and its thrilling matchups.