Weili Zhang lives with the expectation of becoming the first Chinese UFC champion: 'I would be proud'

J. Andrade (left) and W. Zhang (right) in their first look at UFC Shenzhen. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

The chinese Weili Zhang will realize her dream of fighting for the Ultimate belt this Saturday (31), at UFC Shenzhen, when she faces the champion Jessica Andrade, for the title of straws (up to 52,1kg.). With just three fights and no defeats in Ultimate, the fighter earned the right to challenge 'Bate-Estaca' and will exchange forces with the Brazilian in the Octagon this weekend. If she wins, Weili already imagines how she would influence the lives of her country's population as China's first representative as UFC champion. The statement was made in an interview 'BJPenn.com'.

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“I would be very proud (to be champion). This would create a huge impact on the development of MMA in China, especially for women. They will know that they can pursue their dreams, no matter what they are, and can shine in any field, including sports,” said Zhang.

PUBLICITY:

It's not new that Ultimate is trying to expand its business to the Asian continent. With a champion in China, the organization would certainly increase its profits, in addition to influencing the emergence of new local talent.

In his last engagement, Zhang beat the North American Tecia torres in combat that took place in March of this year. The triumph gave Weili the right to challenge Andrade, who won his title after defeating Rose namajunas No. UFC 237, which took place in Rio de Janeiro, in May.

PUBLICITY:

For the duel against 'Bate-Estaca', the Chinese woman stated that she was aware of the dangers she would face. However, the fighter says that she prepared herself for a real battle against Jéssica and is prepared to become the new number one.

“I can say that many of my skills can cause damage to Andrade, both my kicks, submissions and much more. I never imagine having a long fight. I will take every opportunity to take down my opponent and end the fight as quickly as possible”, concluded the fighter.

PUBLICITY:

Currently, Zhang, 30 years old, has an impressive record with 20 fights and just one defeat. The Chinese suffered the only setback of her career in her debut fight, when she lost a judges' decision to Meng Bo in 2013.

Jéssica, in turn, will defend her first belt. The Paraná native is now 27 years old and has already performed on 26 occasions, with 20 triumphs and six setbacks. Andrade doesn't know what it's like to lose since meeting the former division champion, Joanna Jedrzejczyk.