UFC

Controversy over illegal elbow mars Ciryl Gane win over legendary Junior dos Santos

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Ciryl Gane defeated Junior dos Santos at UFC 256 but there was a lot of controversy regarding an illegal elbow in the battle

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior dos Santos came into his UFC 256 fight against the undefeated Ciryl Gane high on confidence.

Dos Santos believed he could get back into the title shot with a win. However, Gane was the up and coming star and was going to be a tough test.

Junior Dos Santos of Brazil punches Ciryl Gane of France in their heavyweight bout during the UFC 256 event at UFC APEX on December 12, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

The Frenchman did well to control the Brazilian and it was left to Gane to get the win. He attacked Dos Santos with a couple of punches but then an elbow brought the former champion down.

Dos Santos covered up to protect himself and the referee had to stop the fight in the second round. However, there was some controversy regarding the result. Replays had suggested that Gane might have struck the back of the head of Dos Santos with his elbow.

Back of the head strikes are illegal in the UFC and the fight could have been turned around of even made into a no contest.

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Such strikes to the back of the head are dangerous and can have some serious effects on the fighter. Dos Santos did complain a bit after the call but congratulated Gane on the win.

No problem from the best

Daniel Cormier, Joe Rogan and Joe Anik were on commentary duty for the PPV and also brought up this elbow from Gane.

However, the trio had no problems with this hit and lauded him for doing well against a quality opponent.

Ciryl Gane of France speaks during a training session on December 11, 2019, in Dakar, three days before the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) league ARES. (Photo by SEYLLOU / AFP) (Photo by SEYLLOU/AFP via Getty Images)

Gane was also asked about the elbow strike and he too was concerned for his rival. However, Gane also was happy with his strikes and he is now 7-0 in his MMA career.

This win will be a huge push for the rising Frenchman, and it will be interesting to see what is next for him.

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Saiyed Adeem Karim

Ditching a corporate job to follow a dream isn't easy, but when football comes calling, who can say no? Been following the beautiful game since 1998. Liverpool addict, F1 fanatic!

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