A. Smith (photo) is a former UFC light heavyweight title challenger. Photo: UFC/Disclosure
Featured in UFC 277, which takes place this Saturday (30), Anthony Smith is one step away from a new title fight in the light heavyweight division (up to 93kg.). Opponent of Magomed Ankalayev over the weekend, the North American confirmed conversations with Dana White, president of the company, in which the boss guaranteed a challenge from the winner to the champion, if it is not a monotonous fight. Otherwise, Glover Teixeira must secure a rematch with Jiri Prochazka.
“Dana already told me that the fight (against Ankalaev) is for the title challenger. Then, the winner fights for the title. I believe that's why they didn't schedule a rematch between Glover and Jiri, or Blachowicz and Jiri. I think they (UFC management) are waiting to see what happens between Ankalaev and me. If we have a bad fight, I believe that one of the two (Glover or Blachowicz) will come out on top. However, if we fight everything we can, the winner will earn the status of challenger, regardless of any situation,” said Smith, in an interview with 'MMA fighting'.
See too
In the light heavyweight elite for years, Anthony passes on part of the responsibility for a good fight to his opponent, Magomed. According to the American, the Russian's pragmatic style could delay their plans to become the champion.
“Ankalaev fights boring fights, but I don’t. I've been in monotonous combat for 50 performances. I don’t expect it to be a bad fight among so many good ones,” he concluded.
Current number five in the ranking, Smith is trying to reach his fourth positive result in a row. Magomed is in fourth place and is looking for his ninth consecutive victory in the company.
You need login To comment.