Last weekend, Alex Poatán said goodbye to GLORY, ending a successful career in the company. Close to making his migration to the UFC official, the Brazilian spoke exclusively to the SUPER LUTAS YouTube channel about the full transition to MMA. The athlete also analyzed his relationship with Israel adesanya, athlete defeated twice by Tupiniquim under kickboxing rules.
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Even though he was defeated by Artem Vakhitov at GLORY 78, in the majority decision of the judges, Poatan left the company with his head held high. Willing to test himself in the biggest MMA organization in the world, the Brazilian has his debut scheduled for November 6th, against Andreas Michailidis.
Ready for MMA?
The November 6 fight will not mark Alex's first test in mixed martial arts. The Brazilian, today, has four tests in the sport, the last being in November 2020, when he ran over Thomas Powell for the LFA. Thus, the fighter responded about how he feels about the total migration in the sport.
“I think 80% (about being ready). Not everything is the ground and I'm not a beast on the ground either. I'm training. Glover (Teixeira) is always praising me. I am fine. What I'm missing is fighting experience. I have some, they are few”, said Poatan.
Chasing Adesanya? None of that
Executioner of Israel twice under kickboxing rules, Alex ruled out having any rivalry with the Nigerian. Having been superior to the Ultimate champion when they faced each other, the Tupiniquim shows calmness when talking about the subject.
“For kickboxing, I don’t think he comes. He's already abandoned it. In GLORY, he achieved nothing. I'm always taking advantage (against Israel). I'm on my own, I don't have to prove anything. If he wants to prove something, I don't know. I'm fine anyway and I'm not looking for a third fight against him, no”, said the fighter.
Today, is there anyone to surpass Adesanya?
Analyzing the UFC middleweight roster, Poatan credits Adesanya for his reign in the division. Keeping an eye on the group, the Brazilian sees the Nigerian as a great representative of the division, but believes in the champion's flaws, which, at some point, can be exploited.
“Now, I think it’s difficult for (Adesanya to be dethroned). If there is a change in everyone who fought with him, (…) they would have a chance. I mean that technically,” he stated.
Athlete's history
With two belts in different categories on GLORY's resume, Poatan will arrive at Ultimate with the respect of being one of the best 'changers' in combat sports. At 34 years old, the Brazilian will be making his fifth appearance in MMA.
Today, Alex has four performances in mixed martial arts. The athlete has three victories and one setback.
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