
Alex Poatán poses next to Sean Strickland before the UFC 297. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
If the presence of Alex Poatán in the corner of Sean Strickland protocols for UFC 312 surprises some, Michael Bisping had no doubts when explaining the real reasons why the Brazilian got directly involved in the former champion's fight against Dricus du Plessis for the belt. The fight takes place next Saturday (8).
On his YouTube channel, Bisping highlighted that Poatan's trip to Australia is not just about supporting his former rival and friend, but about a series of strategic opportunities that the current light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg) could not pass up — even thinking about the fight against Magomed Ankalayev, on March 8.
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"Sean Strickland has been training with Magomed Ankalayev, so there is a natural connection between them. And this exchange of knowledge can be beneficial for Poatan too, after all, he will learn more about the Russian's style, something that will be crucial for his next fight,” said Bisping.
The former champion highlighted that, in addition to being there to help Strickland, Alex will also be in a series of public appearances and promotional events that, according to the British, could yield between US$100 (R$578) and US$150 (R$867) for the Brazilian.
“But the real reason Poatan is going to Australia, let’s be honest, is because he’s going to make a lot of money. This is an opportunity he can’t afford to miss. He can give a seminar, make a few appearances, maybe even take a picture with fans in a bar. And all of this will add up to a good amount of money,” he added.
Will Alex Poatan be hurt by being at UFC 312?
And, contrary to what many might imagine, Bisping does not believe that Poatan's exposure will affect his performance in the UFC 313. As much as the idea of a fighter getting distracted at promotional events close to an important fight is something to be analyzed with caution, the Brit makes it clear that the Brazilian's strategy is a long-term move.
“He still has time until his fight against Ankalaev. Of course, the focus should be on his preparation, but he will not miss this moment. It is a unique opportunity, and he knows it. At the end of the day, the image he builds outside the octagon ends up having a big impact on what he does inside it,” he concluded.
Alex Poatán, 37 years old, is one of the biggest names in MMA today, with a record of 12 wins and two losses. Among his most notable victories are conquests over Israel adesanya, Sean Strickland, Jamahal hill e Jiri Prochazka.
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