With UFC 313 just days away, the featured fighters on the card shared at media day their final thoughts ahead of fight night. Here are the biggest takeaways from UFC 313 media day.
Magomed Ankalaev has been waiting for his chance to fight for UFC gold again. After his controversial draw against Jan Blachowicz at UFC 282, he believes he already earned the belt—but he’s not dwelling on the past.
Now, he’s fully focused on making the most of this opportunity, having another title shot in his eyes since his first fight with Johnny Walker over a year ago.
Ignacio Bahamondes has a tough test ahead of him against Jalin Turner, but he’s embracing the challenge. Knowing Turner’s reputation as a dangerous finisher, Bahamondes is prepared to go all in. With a victory this weekend, Bahamondes will likely find himself ranked inside the top-15 at Lightweight.
Rafael Fiziev is no stranger to high-action fights, and he expects nothing different when he steps into the octagon. He referenced his past battle with Justin Gaethje as an example of the kind of fight he delivers.
Fiziev hasn't fought in nearly two years, and is eager to re-introduce himself and his fighting style to the world this weekend in the co-main event.
Gaethje is coming off a tough loss to Holloway at UFC 300, a fight where he suffered a fifth round KO to the former Featherweight Champion. Speaking at media day, he shared that he recently rewatched the bout for the first time.
Gaethje now on Rafael Fiziev in a highly anticipated rematch, with a ranking inside the top-5 at stake.
Jalin Turner reflected on his past fight with Renato Moicano, admitting he was unprepared for his opponent’s ground game. Turner was able to drop Moicano in their fight back at UFC 300, but was unable to capitalise and eventually lost by TKO.
Alex Pereira was asked at UFC 313 media day if he was the biggest star in the sport currently, up against names such as Sean O'Malley and Israel Adesanya. Poatan believes he is.