48 hours before the start of 11 UFC fights, which are being held for the first time in Saudi Arabia, specifically at the “Octagon” to be constructed at “Kingdom Arena,” the press conference for the fight champions was held today (Thursday).
Robert Whittaker vs. Ikram Aliskerov
Australian Robert Whittaker issued a strong challenge against his Russian opponent Ikram Aliskerov, affirming his high readiness for next Saturday despite Aliskerov’s tactical and skill differences from Khamzat Chimaev. He mentioned that he will rely heavily on his previous experiences and lessons learned throughout his career in this sport.
Whittaker also expressed his great happiness in participating in the first UFC fight to be held in Saudi Arabia, expressing his surprise at having a large fan base in the Kingdom. He thanked the UFC for organizing this event and Ikram Aliskerov for accepting the challenge.
For his part, Russian Ikram Aliskerov confirmed that the short time frame to accept the challenge will not be an obstacle for his anticipated fight with Australian Robert Whittaker. He noted that he had been eagerly seeking such a match. He promised his fans to put in every effort to win next Saturday.
In response to a question about the challenge statements made by Robert Whittaker towards him, the boxer of Dagestani origin said, “I have heard such statements from the Australian boxer, but it seems he doesn’t know what we Dagestanis can bring to the octagon.”
Aliskerov revealed that he made some contacts with his former coaches, in addition to the famous mixed martial arts star Khabib Nurmagomedov, to get useful advice.
Sergei Pavlovich vs. Alexander Volkov
Russian Sergei Pavlovich spoke about his fight with Alexander Volkov, saying: “I have an important match that I am looking forward to winning, and I am ready as if preparing for war.” Meanwhile, Volkov expressed his happiness about meeting his fans in Saudi Arabia and said about his fight against Pavlovich: “I won’t hide my anxiety about the strength of my opponent in this fight, but I have a strong desire to win. I believe luck will play a big role in the final outcome. I invite my large fan base, both Russian and Arab, to cheer for me enthusiastically, as they will have a role in my victory.” He added: “The importance of this fight will qualify me to enter the UFC Championship, which is what I aspire to.”
Sharaputdin Magomedov vs. Joelton Lutterbach
The Russian Sharaputdin Magomedov, who is aiming to maintain his undefeated record in the UFC, expressed his full readiness to face Brazil’s Joelton Lutterbach in the Middleweight division. He said, “I will try to excel in my game against my opponent to achieve victory, especially since this is my second match with the UFC, and I aim to continue with them in future fights.”
Daniel Rodriguez vs. Kelvin Gastelum
American Daniel Rodriguez, who will face his fellow countryman Kelvin Gastelum in a Welterweight bout, stated during the press conference that this fight against a big name like Gastelum is unpredictable. He explained, “My opponent has been through tough times, but I need to prepare for the best possible version of that opponent.” Gastelum, on the other hand, confirmed that he is putting in all his effort to reach the ideal weight through numerous tough exercises, adding, “We are set for a spectacular show on Saturday. My opponent is definitely very strong and has good defensive skills, but once we enter the octagon and the door closes, game plans go out the window.”
