J. Blachowicz is the current UFC light heavyweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook @ufc
Although the confrontation between Jan Blachowicz e Glover Teixeira has not yet been confirmed by the UFC, the Pole is already analyzing the possible clash against the Minas Gerais native. Owner of the light heavyweight belt (up to 93kg), the Pole doesn't seem to worry about the dangers that could be posed by the veteran. In an interview with ‘BJPenn.com’, the champion minimized the Brazilian’s qualities and outlined a bold plan for the future.
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“He (Glover) has good boxing, but he uses it to get closer and take you down. In this fight, I'll be the guy who wants to fight standing up and he'll try to take me to the ground. My jiu-jitsu is good, better than his, so if he tries to take me down, it won't be easy to get a submission. He will need to be careful. Maybe I'll take him down. I’m better in every area,” said Blachowicz.
After making his first title defense, when he defeated Israel adesanya, UFC 259, the Pole did not hide his desire to pause his career to rest. At the press conference after the show, which took place in early May, the champion confirmed that he is not expected to return to action for six months. Weeks later, however, Jan admits that the deadline could be shorter.
“Right now, after six months, I will return to the octagon. You know, maybe, after two weeks of celebrating (the good result against Israel), I might want to come back sooner,” he said.
Instant booking on UFC 259, Teixeira closely followed Blachowicz's dominant victory over the Nigerian. Shortly after the duel, the Brazilian approached the octagon and verbally agreed the fight against the champion.
A veteran of MMA, with 39 fights contested, Glover is racing against time to become official as the next challenger. The Minas Gerais native, who already fought for the title in 2014 (he was defeated on points by Jon Jones), although he is enjoying a great moment in the sport, he will turn 42 in October.
Blachowicz's future at heavyweight
Success against Adesanya appears to have boosted Blachowicz's confidence. Light heavyweight leader since Jon Jones gave up the title, the champion admits the possibility of testing himself at heavyweight (up to 120,2kg) in the near future.
“Maybe two or three title defenses. We will see. Maybe Ultimate will make me a good offer. Maybe even before. If there is a chance to fight for the title (in the top division), it would be the best for me. But, I will work in my time. This is the future”, he concluded.
At 38 years old, Blachowicz took over the throne of the under-93kg group. when hitting Dominick reyes in one of the most anticipated fights in the UFC 253, in September 2020. In total, the Pole today has 36 appearances as a professional in MMA, with 28 triumphs and eight setbacks.
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