This has long been the answer from Cyril Gane when asked about future matches. However, after his UFC Fight Night 209 TKO win over Tai Tuivasa, things are a bit different. There is a provision. Gaine (11-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC) is golden. “I don’t know exactly what’s going to happen,” Gane told reporters, including MMA Junkie, at the post-fight press conference. “I think nobody knows what’s going to happen. They had a lot of turnover in that department right now. I don’t know if there will be an intermediate title. I don’t know when he’ll be back if he stays in the category, Francis. I don’t know when he wants to fight (or is) able to fight. I don’t know exactly, but regardless of who. I say every time, anyone-anywhere. But now I’m looking for the belt, yeah.” Right now, Francis Ngannou currently holds the UFC heavyweight title. He has not been held out for now as he continues to rehabilitate his knee from surgery earlier in the year. Former champions Stipe Miocic and Jon Jones are also nearing returns. Perennial prospect Curtis Blaydes also sits idle. The opponent doesn’t matter to Gaine, he’s just getting back to a title shot. Public discussion has included possible interim titles. Gane is a former interim champion and he’s not opposed to doing that again. “No, (I don’t mind) because I understand that the UFC has to manage this situation,” Gane said. “It’s not easy. He’s had big injuries and big surgeries, so I can understand. If I don’t want to wait too long, then yes, I’m fine with an interim title. That would put me in the front row for the belt here.” Gane is Ngannou’s most recent title defense. Former training partners, they fought at UFC 270 in January when Ngannou (17-3 MMA, 12-2 UFC) defeated Gane by unanimous decision. Despite the recent result, Gane doesn’t think it’s indicative of a repeat result. “I think Francis did really well because he had more experience, more maturity,” Gaine said. “He did a really good (job). So I don’t think he was much better than me on the day, but he did a lot better. If tomorrow I have my revenge, I must do a better (job). For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 209.