Thiago Moises was as surprised as the rest of us when he drew highly-hyped Russian fighter Islam Makhachev, but he showed no hesitation in accepting the bout. Makhachev is one of the most-hyped fighters in the UFC.
Training alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, and delivering a similarly brutal utilitarian grappling-focused style of fighting, Makhachev is widely touted as a potential future champion.
Thiago Moises on Makhachev fight: “I see myself winning this fight by stoppage”
When Thiago Moises, fresh off the back of a three-fight win streak, was offered the chance to take Makhachev on, he jumped at the opportunity. He told BJPenn.com:
“Yes, actually when I got the call to fight Islam I was very surprised. I was looking at the names I could fight next and I didn’t think the UFC would offer me, Islam.
I thought Islam would fight someone closer to the top-five to get a title shot. But, I’m happy with the fight and I accepted it right away. I know a lot of guys don’t want to fight him.
A lot of guys are running away from him but I was very excited and happy with this opportunity.”
This displayed Moises’ positive mentality and can-do attitude, a refreshing change from the cartoon villain-level trash talk emanating from the likes of McGregor and Covington in recent weeks. Moises went on to discuss his plan for the fight, and how he sees things unfolding. Although few fighters want to take on someone as lethal as Makhachev, Moises believes their styles are complementary:
““I think my game matches well against his game. I’m a good grappler and I fight well with my back on the mat as you guys have seen. I have a lot of submissions on my back.
I think our styles match really well. Man, I see myself winning this fight by stoppage, either a TKO or submission.”
Should Moises deliver on this claim, a stoppage win would see him lead ahead in the UFC rankings. He may take on a top-ten opponent and potentially challenge for the title.
“After I beat Islam I will be close to the title. I will be right in the mix like a couple more wins and I’ll be fighting for the title.
I’m hoping to fight once more this year. I’m very focused on Islam and not on anyone else.
All my energy is focused on him, after I beat him, I should get a main event against some big name.”
Do you agree? Will Moises take Makhachev on and seriously contend for the title, or will Makhachev sweep Thiago Moises aside like so many before him? Let us know in the comments.
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