W. Zhang (photo) faces R. Namajunas in the UFC 268. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
His long-awaited rematch against Rose namajunas for the strawweight belt (up to 52,1kg.) of Ultimate, Weili Zhang vented about an event that occurred before the first fight against her rival, in UFC 261. Called a 'communist' by the North American before the confrontation in April, the Chinese narrated how her rival's provocation hurt her, especially in relation to her fans.
See too
“It definitely affected me. The comments Rose made were effective, making the fans turn against me. I believe it's my problem, because I should be focused on the fight, not on the audience. I can't control what the fans support. So, I'm more focused on the confrontation”, said the former champion, in an interview with 'The MMA Hour'.
Although she is certain that a new provocation of this kind would not have the same impact on her preparation, Zhang still does not agree with the trick used by her opponent in promoting the first duel. The athlete then continued analyzing the situation.
“In my mind, I think the comments went overboard, because all the fans, the fighters, we came together in the UFC to share our passion for MMA. I think I'm here because I want to make friends, as we have a love for martial arts in common. It's not cool to mix sport with politics, but maybe that's her plan. At first, I think it was just teasing. It didn't really affect me. However, when you walk into a stadium and people are booing, I believe Rose did it so the fans would boo me,” she concluded.
No UFC 261, Zhang ended up beaten by the North American in a setback that resulted in her losing the title she won in 2019. On November 6, however, the Chinese will have the opportunity to regain the position she assumed in the victory against Jessica Stacker.
You need login To comment.