Thiago Moises views Islam Makhachev as big opportunity

Thiago Moises sees double the motivation in his first UFC headliner.

Moises (15-4 MMA, 4-2 UFC) meets Islam Makhachev (19-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC) on Saturday in the principle occasion of UFC on ESPN 26 on the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

The Brazilian not solely plans on cracking the highest 10 light-weight rankings with a win, but additionally stealing the shine of probably the most extremely touted prospects.

“This struggle towards Islam Makhachev is a superb alternative for me to interrupt into the highest 10,” Moises instructed MMA Junkie. “I’m coming off three nice wins in a row. They weren’t simply wins, however wins over glorious fighters in our weight class – Michael Johnson, Bobby Inexperienced, and Alexander Hernandez. A win over Islam will prolong my UFC successful streak to 4, and it’ll deliver me as much as the highest 9 and even high eight. I’ll be within the combine to in the end get a title shot. The hype round Islam, together with his affiliation with Khabib Nurmagomedov, will solely contribute to that.”

He continued, “I’m solely centered on Islam proper now. It’s a terrific problem in itself. I really feel that with this win, I’ll be just a few fights away from a title shot.”

Makhachev has received his previous seven in a row, utilizing his ever-improving hanging and high-level grappling to run proper by means of opponents. Whereas Moises is cautious of Makhachev’s threats, he thinks he brings an equally properly rounded sport to the desk.

“Islam is a really full opponent. He has good hanging and good floor expertise,” Moises stated. “Sambo and wrestling are his robust fits. However I’m additionally very full in hanging, takedowns and jiu-jitsu. I imagine hanging and jiu-jitsu are my benefits. I imagine our bout will probably be a chess match. Whoever blinks, or strikes the improper piece, can pay the value.”

He continued, “I do know Islam will probably be as properly educated as I’m. No doubt, ours is a struggle worthy of the principle occasion. We’ll placed on a present for all MMA followers.”

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