UFC’s debut in Paris, France could come later this year with a heavyweight main event.
Rumors are swirling that the promotion is targeting September 3rd for their debut in the French region. Reports from Al Zullino, Ariel Helwani and MMA Junkie have all confirmed that the promotion is attempting that date as the first time that they head to the country.
It is also stated in those reports that a fight between rising heavyweight Tai Tuivasa and former title challenger Cirly Gane is being looked at as a potential main event. Should it be confirmed, it would be the first time that Tuivasa appears in a UFC headliner spot.
Tuivasa has quickly ascended up the heavyweight ranks over the past year. He has scored five consecutive finish wins since 2020, with the names he has beaten only intensifying in strength. His last victory came at UFC 271 earlier this year, when he stopped Derrick Lewis in the second round with strikes.
Gane took his first pro loss earlier this year, suffering a unanimous decision defeat against UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou. He previously earned seven consecutive wins in the UFC, including three main event victories.
UFC has yet to hold an event in France since the country legalized MMA in early 2020. Bellator was the first major promotion to touch down there, hosting a card in October 2020. They’re scheduled to return to the country in May.
No other fights have currently been reported for UFC’s September 3rd event.
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