Raoni recognizes tough opponent on Saturday, but says: 'He's the one who has to worry about me'

R. Barcelos in victory for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Brazilian promise in bantamweight (up to 61,2kg.), Raoni barcelos Are you ready for your challenge? UFC Las Vegas 30. Timur Valiev's opponent this Saturday (26), the fighter spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS and he didn't hide his excitement for the challenge. The fighter also revealed a strong rival for his next commitment, if he wins at the weekend.

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Undefeated in his career in the UFC, Barcelos has been impressing with confident performances and convincing victories. Now, the athlete will seek his sixth positive result with the organization's gloves.

Preparation for the confrontation

Without fighting since the show starring Khalid Taha, in November 2020, Raoni was confirmed to play in February of this season. The Rio native, however, was diagnosed with Covid-19 and was forced to leave the clash. So, seven months after his last fight, Barcelos spoke about the preparation time to face Valiev.

“We did a complete 10-week camp (training period). Generally, when I do this, I'm 'flying low'. I am very well prepared. I will emerge victorious with a victory or submission,” said Barcelos.

Vailev analysis

For the weekend, Raoni will come face to face with a promising Russian from the organization. Confident that he will face a tough opponent, the Brazilian reinforced his opponent's positive points, but assured that he will overcome the challenge.

“I have to be careful with his kicks. He's very dangerous and he's a guy who takes down a lot, completely. I think that, regarding the promise, he is Russia's and I am Brazil's. I faced Said Nurmagomdov, who I think is much more talented than him, and I ended up winning. (…) These are things that don’t shake me. He’s the one who has to worry about me”, said the carioca.

Climbing to the top 15

A pupil of Pedro Rizzo, Barcelos remains firm in his dream of reaching the top 15 bantamweight division. To this end, the Brazilian already has an opponent he would like to face, in case of victory at the weekend.

“The time will come. If I do my job the way it should be done, knocking out or submitting, I think I can get into the rankings. After this fight, I now have the opportunity to fight a ranked player. I just haven't fought yet because other guys got hurt and others don't accept it. (…) I think I would challenge Cory (Stamann), because he is in the ranking (15th). As we were already going to fight, I think the UFC could put this fight on this year or, if they want, put someone higher up (better placed) too, I'll be ready”, he revealed.

Dream ending

Known for his strength in his fists and his qualities in grappling, Barcelos didn't shy away when asked what the ideal ending to the duel against Valiev would be. Sure, the Brazilian gave his guess for the outcome.

“I wanted to knock him out in the first round, by hand. I'm looking for the knockout. Of course I go in to fight for 15 minutes, but I wanted to knock him out in the first round”, he concluded.

Athletes' history

Professional in MMA since 2012, Raoni, aged 34, currently has 17 commitments as a professional in MMA. Currently, the Rio native has 16 wins and one defeat, suffered more than seven years ago.

Reaching his 21st challenge in mixed martial arts, Timur is looking for his 18th positive result. Today the Russian, 31, has 17 triumphs, two setbacks and one 'no contest'.

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