Alex Poatán He is UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFCEspanol
After knocking out Jiri Prochazka with mastery in UFC 303, consolidating himself as the holder of the light heavyweight belt (up to 93kg.), Alex Poatán found himself in the spotlight. Speculation about his next opponent dominated conversations, with Magomed Ankalayev as a favorite. However, the Brazilian was not intimidated by the Russian's status and minimized the challenge he represents.
In an interview with 'Full Send MMA', Poatan appeared confident and impassive in the face of predictions that place him as an underdog.
“I don’t know if it’s the biggest challenge because of grappling. Just like Blachowicz. Before we fought, they said he was very good. Then I win and people say 'it's not all that'. So it’s impossible to understand,” he said, recalling the victory over the former champion Jan Blachowicz.
In a defiant tone, Poatan went on to say that he is 'indifferent' about his next opponent. He promised to be ready for any challenge in his career.
“I'm going to fight Ankalaev and they say 'he's the best' and so on. If I beat him, they'll say it wasn't. So, for me, it's indifferent. Put whoever you want and we will be ready”, he concluded.
Alex Pereira: “When I beat [Magomed] Ankalaev, they're gonna say that he's not the best guy no more.”
YT/ @full_send_mma #UFC303 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/5DUBadQci9
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 30, 2024
Poatan x Ankalaev
The victory over Prochazka not only consolidated Poatan's reign but also established him as the first Brazilian to defend the light heavyweight title. A historic milestone that further elevates the athlete's legacy within the largest MMA organization in the world.
Ankalaev, for his part, appears determined to earn his title shot. The Russian, who boasts a record of 19 wins, one loss and one draw, is coming off a dominant victory over Johnny Walker in his most recent fight.
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