Khabib Nurmagomedov acknowledges that Tony Ferguson has been on an awe-inspiring roll, and that “El Cucuy” is a very talented fighter. But, recently the undefeated fighter and UFC lightweight champ explained why he’s pretty confident he’ll beat Ferguson, April 18th.
Nurmagomedov on why he “rates” his chances high
The 31-year-old, Dagestani star recently did a Q&A with fans, and while doing so, he was asked about his upcoming fight with Ferguson. While discussing where he thinks he has Ferguson beat, Nurmagomedov said this (quotes via MMA Junkie – translations by RT Sport):
“I always rate my chances higher than those of my opponents, since I can’t approach a fight with uncertainty,” Nurmagomedov said. “I think I’m a lot better than him at wrestling. I’m much better than him physically. I’m tougher than him, and I haven’t lost yet, unlike him.”
“Unlike him, I haven’t been knocked down yet,” Nurmagomedov said. “He has – I believe seven UFC knockdowns, a lot of falls from punches, so I can hit, and I’m going to hit him especially hard.”
Few people would argue that Nurmagomedov is the better wrestler. That said, many have argued that Ferguson has the most dangerous and dynamic ground game of any fighter Khabib’s faced. The point about the knockdowns is an interesting one, as the consensus is that Ferguson is the superior striker. So, in other words, will Khabib be able to land that hard shot like he says? During striking exchanges?
Khabib’s taking Ferguson “seriously”
Although the galaxy-class grappler is feeling pretty good about his chances, as noted above, Khabib insists he’s not looking past Ferguson.
“…I think it’s probably also right to note his strengths. He’s also on a good winning streak; he hasn’t lost since 2012. He’s a very good opponent. In the history of the UFC there’s never been a fight between two people with 12 wins in a row, so it’ll be a big historic event. As an opponent, I take him very seriously.”
Yup, it has all the makings of an amazing bout. Case in point, more than a few people have argued that on paper, it has the potential to be the greatest lightweight fight in UFC history. Not only are both men ridiculously, talented fighters. But in Khabib, you have someone who has never lost, and Ferguson’s on one of the greatest runs right now in the sport.
If you’re wondering, no official UFC number has been announced yet for the April 18th event, which is going to take place in Brooklyn, New York. There’s a good chance, however, that it will be UFC 249.
More About:MMA MMA Frenzy Sports