Michel Pereira cites problems with the smaller octagon in Las Vegas, but promises a spectacle again

M. Pereira in victory for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook @ufc

Protagonist of one of the most dominant performances of 2020, when he ran over Zelim Imadaev, in September, Michael Pereira is back. With attributes that could promote him to become a Brazilian idol in MMA, the 'Paraense Voador' will face Kalinn Williams this Saturday (19), at UFC Las Vegas 17 and wants to confirm the good phase. The fighter, however, revealed that the dimensions of the octagon at this weekend's event (slightly smaller than the official size) could affect his performance, but he did not shy away from his promise to give the fans a show.

See too

Challenged by a YouTuber, what could McGregor buy with the almost R$260 million offered? See list

Upset with defeat, Ronaldo Jacaré wants a quick return to the octagon

Romero reveals surprise with UFC dismissal and admits having denied fight against Brazilian light heavyweight

Curtis Blaydes reveals that fight against Derrick Lewis should be rescheduled for early 2021

“The octagon being smaller has hindered me in the things I do. There's no way to go ahead and get there and not have space. The octagon blocked me a little, but I have a lot of things up my sleeve that no one has ever done. And when I do it, people will say: 'Wow, I can't believe Michel did that'. Even I'm like: 'I don't have faith that I'll have the courage to do a deal like that'. I have a lot of tricks up my sleeve, but the octagon is giving me a hard time”, said the Brazilian, in an interview with 'Combate'.

The fight against Williams will take place at the UFC Apex, Ultimate's headquarters in Las Vegas. The venue, before the Covid-19 pandemic, was set up to host the 'Dana White's Contender Series' clashes. With reduced measurements, the fight stage provides more physical contact between the athletes and less space for Pereira's plastic blows.

Even so, Michel, who has increasingly cemented his style as a 'showman', did not shy away from the responsibility of entertaining spectators on the card that closes the 2020 season. For 'Paraense Voador', the confrontation will be busy, with two high-level athletes exchanging blows in the second half of the show.

“I'm a guy who fights to put on a show, a spectacle, for those watching to see a cool fight. I prefer to fight well. Victory or defeat are consequences of your work. Whether you deserve it or not, may the best win. I'm ready, I prepared well, I hope he (Williams) does too. It’s going to be a great show, because there are two guys who have a taste of victory”, he concluded.

At 27 years old, Michel is going to his fifth fight with UFC gloves. So far, the Brazilian has two victories and two positive results in the organization.

Williams, 26, will have his third commitment in Ultimate. The combatant doesn't know what it's like to lose for the company.