C. Do Bronx seeks to occupy the throne left by K. Nurmagomedov. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Close to making history and taking the place of one of the greatest fighters in the history of MMA, Charles of the Bronx don't care about provocations when it comes to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Opponent of Michael chandler No. UFC 262, which takes place this Saturday (15), competing for the vacant lightweight title (up to 70,3kg.), the Brazilian praised the Russian's legacy in the sport, ensuring maximum respect for the legend. In conversation with the press, with the participation of SUPER FIGHTS, the São Paulo native spoke about the subject.
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“If you ask if I wanted this fight (against Khabib), (the answer is) absolutely. I think everyone wanted the opportunity to fight Khabib. He's a guy who's 29-0 (wins – losses), but, first of all, we have to respect everything he's done. The guy retired because of his father. He doesn’t want it anymore,” said the Brazilian.
Asked if there would be any possibility of challenging the Russian in his post-fight speech – in case of victory – Charles did not shy away. For Do Bronx, if the legend's name is mentioned, it will only be to recognize his achievements.
“I respect him so much. I won't say anything. I won't provoke. If I have to say something, just thank him for everything he did for the sport, like others did and retired”, he concluded.
With more than 10 years in the UFC, this weekend's show will mark the Brazilian's first opportunity to fight for a belt in the house. Opponent of the former Bellator champion, the São Paulo native is experiencing one of the best moments in his career, with eight consecutive victories. In his last appointment, in December, Do Bronx 'walked' in front of Tony Ferguson, beating 'Bicho Papão' on points after dominating his rival for three rounds.
After a practically perfect debut in Ultimate, Michael chandler managed to fight for the belt in his second challenge in the organization. Bellator legend, the American signed a contract with the organization in the second half of 2020, debuting in January of this season. In his first duel, the combatant ran over Dan Hooker with a devastating knockout in the first round.
One of the biggest names in recent UFC history, Khabib left MMA in October last season after winning Justin gaethje and unify the lightweight belt. In his speech after 'erasing' his opponent, the Russian, still in the octagon, confirmed that he would be hanging up his gloves.
At the time, the fighter stated that the decision to stop was mainly due to the death of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, in February 2020. For the Russian legend, it would no longer make sense to continue competing without the presence of his main mentor and coach in the modality.
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