F. Maldonado debuts for RIZIN in October. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook UFC)
Brazilian Fábio Maldonado will have a great challenge ahead. The former UFC fighter will debut for RIZIN on October 12, in Japan, and will face the light heavyweight division (up to 93kg.), Jiri Prochazka, who holds a company belt and has not lost a fight since 2016. The duel was confirmed by the fighter himself on his Instagram account. The fight between the athletes will not be valid for the company title. In an interview given to the organization itself, 'Caipira de Aço' spoke about his expectations for the duel.
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“I'm very happy to be able to fight at RIZIN. I'm sure Japanese fans will love my style. Jiri is a very tough opponent and perfect for an epic battle”, said the athlete.
In addition to performing against a company idol, Maldonado will also have the responsibility of knowing how to deal with the age difference. His opponent is only 26 years old, while the Brazilian is 39.
Out of Ultimate since the defeat to Corey anderson, in 2015, anyone who thinks that the 'Caipira de Aço' is unknown to his rival is mistaken. According to Prochazka, it has already been observed and will be properly studied for the confrontation between the two.
“I'm really happy for this opponent. It's a real challenge for me. I saw him once when he fought with Fedor Emelianenko (2016), in a very good and tough fight. He's a different type of opponent than I've ever had, but this is the right challenge for me, said the light heavyweight champion.
As the fight will not be worth the company's belt, the duel will be held at a combined weight. The fighters will enter the ring with a weight limit of 99,8kg.
In MMA, Fábio is not having a good time. Although he won his last fight, last year, when he faced his compatriot, Thiago Silva (Butter), the fighter suffered six defeats in his last nine fights. Throughout his career, the fighter from Sorocaba (SP) carried out 38 combats, with 25 triumphs and 13 setbacks.
Jiri has already made 27 appearances, with 24 victories and only three setbacks.
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