October 7, 2024 7:15 pm ET
Artem Vakhitov dismisses the notion that UFC mild heavyweight champion Alex Pereira is one of the best striker in MMA.
Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC) retained his title by battering Khalil Rountree in Round 4 of Saturday’s UFC 307 main event at Delta Middle in Salt Lake Metropolis. Vakhitov (2-1), a former rival of Pereira’s in kickboxing, wasn’t as excessive on Pereira’s efficiency as everybody else was.
“I don’t assume that he’s actually good and one of the best striker as a result of to have only one good punch, it doesn’t imply you’re a extremely good striker,” Vakhitov instructed Submission Radio.
“An actual striker is somebody who has plenty of combos, very completely different alternatives. He’s simply taught properly: one punch and ship in it. However it doesn’t imply having good way and timing and different stuff. So I believe he’s not a extremely good striker due to it.”
Vakhitov and Pereira fought twice in Glory Kickboxing in back-to-back bouts. Pereria gained their first assembly by break up resolution at Glory 77 in January 2021. Vakhitov avenged that loss eight months later by majority resolution at Glory 78. Pereira stated he doubts Vakhitov can recreate their kickboxing history in the UFC, however Vakhitov thinks in any other case. The 33-year-old will look to earn a UFC contract Tuesday when he meets Islem Masraf (3-0) at Dana White’s Contender Sequence 75 from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
“Sure, for certain I noticed it, and he might say now no matter he needs. However the time will come, and he’ll change his opinion, I’m certain,” Vakhitov stated. “Combating in small gloves is a distinct sport. We’ve got an excellent and skilled group. For certain sooner or later, if the combat would occur, we’d do every thing to be prepared for it.”
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