Jean Silva celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Jean Silva He is already starting to plan his next steps towards the top of the UFC featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg). Dissatisfied after being left out of the immediate plans of Alexander Volkanovsky In the race for the belt, the Brazilian revealed a bold strategy to get closer to a possible title fight. The 'Nerd' plans to train with Ilia Topuria, former champion of the category and responsible for one of the most memorable victories over the Australian.
In an interview with the channel 'Laerte Viana na Área – MMA', the fighter explained that he sees the Spanish-Georgian as a key player for technical improvement should the fight against Volkanovski materialize. According to Jean, the idea is to learn directly from someone who has already found ways to overcome the champion, even while acknowledging the risk involved in the experience.
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"When he (Topuria) was in my weight class, I really imagined fighting him, because he was the champion, so the target was on his back. But today, to be honest, I thank God that he moved up; the kid is a real pain in the ass, bro. So, yeah, man, I'm going to look for (Topuria)."
If Volkanovski actually gets off the treadmill and signs the contract, for sure… but I understand him (Volkanovski): 37 years old, wants to retire with nine title defenses to pass the baton. José Aldo, which is the greatest in history. I understand him, but if Volkanovski accepts, I'll definitely go after Topuria, I hope he doesn't take it badly. I'll ask for help; how could I not ask for help from someone who beat (Volkanovski)?
We already get "no" for everything... I've received so many "no's" in the UFC, I still do, I won't lie. I know it can go very badly, but it's part of the game; sparring, putting myself in difficult situations... I think I'm willing to go through anything to become champion, even taking my team to do a camp with Topuria and prepare for Volkanovski.
I know my team is with me on this; I wouldn't do it alone, it doesn't make sense. I'm going with my team so we can learn together, or I'd even find a way to bring Topuria to Brazil for an exchange program and help not only me, but the whole team,” he said. Jean Silva in the interview.
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Why does Jean Silva want to train with Ilia Topuria?
The movement arises amid to the Brazilian's frustration after Volkanovski mentioned Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy as possible next challengers., right after the victory over Diego lopes in the main fight of UFC 325Determined not to fall behind in the title race, Jean Silva He's betting on different strategies to accelerate his development and put himself in contention for the division's belt, such as his desire to train with the Spanish-Georgian.
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