Jailton Malhadinho admits Alex Poatan has 'advantage' in UFC heavyweight division

Jailton Malhadinho e Alex Poatán. Photo: Reproduction 'X'

Jailton Malhadinho recognizes that Alex Poatán can pass him in the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg). The Bahian enters action at UFC 321, scheduled for next Saturday (25), against Alexander Volkov, seeking to become the challenger for the title of Tom aspinallHowever, he knows that his compatriot has what it takes to take on the role.

In an interview with 'MMA Fighting', Jailton Malhadinho summarized the current situation of the heavyweights and pointed out that he should be next in line for the belt. However, he recognizes that, if Alex Poatán confirm his rise in category, the Pataxó must assume the position of number one challenger.

“In theory, if I get past Volkov, it would be me, right? But you can never forget what Poatan did. He has complete freedom to jump the queue. He's the current champion in his division and a guy who sells a lot… I'm being realistic, he's a guy who's way ahead of me. We'll see what the UFC can offer. Maybe they put him in… Jon Jones and he, put me and Tom aspinall, if I beat Volkov, in the White House too.”, said Malhadinho.

When imagining the duel between Alex Poatán e Jon Jones, Jailton Malhadinho highlighted the Brazilian's qualities, but was unable to point out a favorite, as he is a declared fan of the North American.

"Poatan is a very tough guy. In the first fight (against Ankalaev), he said he wasn't prepared, and now, in the last one, he came out in a different, overwhelming way. He's a guy who really deserves this recognition from Brazil. It's a tough fight, but it's a 50-50 fight, because I'm a big fan of him." Jon Jones.”, concluded the heavyweight.

Heavyweight division

After Jon Jones declare retirement, Tom aspinall, who was interim champion, was promoted to linear champion. Now, the British makes his first defense against Cyryl Gane, in the main fight of UFC 321.

In the same event, Jailton Malhadinho measure forces with Alexander Volkov in search of becoming the number one contender. Already Alex Poatán, light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg), is on the outside after regaining his belt at UFC 320 and once again flirting with the idea of ​​moving up a weight class. Pataxó target, however, it would be a super fight against Jon Jones.