Alex Poatan was defeated by Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC News
A star of UFC Shanghai and on a violent rise in the organization, Zhang Mingyang prepares to face Johnny Walker , seeking to claim his fourth victim in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. A heavy favorite in betting circles, the Chinese fighter gets closer with each victory to his dream opportunity to challenge for the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg).
Looking ahead to the rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Poatan at UFC 320, Zhang didn't hide his opinion about the Brazilian and his prediction for the fight. In the prospect's view, the former champion seems unmotivated and this attitude could lead to another loss for 'Big Ank'.
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“I think Ankalaev can defend his title because I don’t think Alex Pereira is as motivated as he used to be. I mean, if we can get the old Pereira back, he’s still, let’s say, a better striker than Ankalaev. But for now, if he keeps fighting like he did in his last fight, I think Ankalaev can still win this fight (again),” Zhang told MMA Fighting.
Explaining his opinion, Zhang highlighted that Poatan's monetary achievements may have become the biggest villain in his current athletic career.
"Because he made a lot of money. He's very rich. I think no matter who you are as a fighter or as a human being, if you're very rich, you end up losing motivation compared to when you're young, when you're poor, when you're hungry. I think that's normal. It's not uncommon," he concluded.
UFC 320 protagonists Ankalaev and Poatan face off in Las Vegas (USA) on October 4. An underdog in the bookmakers' minds, the Brazilian says he's focused on trying to regain the belt he lost to his rival in his last appearance in the octagon.
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