VIDEO: Marreta points out Blachowicz's 'slight favoritism' against Glover and sets a deadline for his return

Considered, by many, as one of the toughest fighters in the light heavyweight category (up to 93kg), Thiago Marreta analyzed the fight between Jan Blachowicz e Glover Teixeira, who are competing for the belt in UFC 266, September 4th. In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS channel, the Brazilian says he supports his compatriot, but considers the Pole 'slight favorite' for the fight.

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Marreta knows both fighters well. He knocked out Blachowicz in February 2019, in a fight that guaranteed a title shot against Jon Jones. Coincidentally, after losing to the North American in a split decision by the judges, the Brazilian squarely faced Glover, being finished with a rear naked choke in the third round. Now, the former challenger believes that the Pole's evolution in the Octagon will make a difference in the title fight, despite declaring his support for his compatriot.

“It's an interesting fight, because the two look very similar. They like boxing, feel comfortable in grappling and are very static when moving. I consider it a slight favoritism for Jan (Blachowicz), as he is very mature and aware. He's a different fighter since I faced him. But the big fans are for Glover (Teixeira)”, said Marreta.

Plans for the future

After losing to Aleksandar rakic No. UFC 259, the fighter reveals that he has already returned to training and intends to return as soon as possible. According to him, the idea is to climb to the octagon 'between June or July' and recover from the uncomfortable sequence of three defeats.

“I just got back to training hard. I talked to my manager and asked to fight in June or July. So, that's my idea. There is nothing closed or any conversation. But, if there is an opportunity, I want to be ready and accept any challenge”, said the Brazilian.

Asked about which competitors he would like to face next, Marreta – who does not usually mention the names of fighters – states that he wants to face the loser among Dominick reyes e Jiri Prochazka, in combat valid for the UFC Las Vegas 24 this Saturday (17).

“When we're coming off a defeat, there's not much that can happen. I would like to face the loser of the fight between Dominick reyes e Jiri Prochazka. It would be nice. But I don't know when they'll want to fight again. And I don't want to take too long to get back. Volkan oezdemir It’s an option too,” he highlighted.

Risk of dismissal

Despite facing the worst series without winning in his career, Thiago Marreta he speaks naturally about a possible dismissal from Ultimate, in the event of another defeat. The Brazilian, who has been with the organization since 2013, shows dissatisfaction only with his current situation and indicates that other franchises have already expressed an interest in hiring him.

“I push myself too hard and I don’t like defeat. But not for fear of being cut. Even now, coming off losses, some events have contacted my manager asking if the UFC would cut me. So, there's no chance of me not working, no matter how much they cut me. I still feel really good and ready to win again,” he concluded.

Today, the Brazilian occupies fourth place in the ranking of the category led by Jan Blachowicz. In his career, he has a record of 21 wins and nine losses.