Johnny Walker's rival questions Poatan's motivation for UFC 320 rematch

Alex Poatán was defeated by Magomed Ankalayev No. UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC News

protagonist of UFC Shanghai and increasingly violent in the organization, Zhang Mingyang prepare to face Johnny Walker, looking to claim his fourth victim in the Ultimate. A big favorite among bookmakers, the Chinese fighter gets closer, with each victory, to the dream opportunity of fighting for the light heavyweight belt (up to 93 kg).

Keeping an eye on the rematch between Magomed Ankalayev e Alex Poatán No. UFC 320Zhang didn't hide his opinion about the Brazilian and his prediction for the fight. In the prospect's view, the former champion seems demotivated and his attitude could lead to another defeat for 'Big Ank'.

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"I think Ankalaev can defend his title because I think Alex Pereira isn't 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 the last fight, I think Ankalaev can still win this fight (again)," Zhang told MMA Fighting.

Alex Poatán e Magomed Ankalayev staring down before the fight (Photo: Instagram)

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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.

Protagonists of UFC 320Ankalaev and Poatan will face off in Las Vegas (USA) on October 4th. Considered the underdog by the bookmakers, the Brazilian fighter insists he is focused on trying to reclaim the belt he lost to his rival in his last appearance in the octagon.