October 7, 2024 7:15 pm ET
Artem Vakhitov dismisses the notion that UFC gentle heavyweight champion Alex Pereira is the very 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 the very best striker as a result of to have only one good punch, it doesn’t imply you’re a very good striker,” Vakhitov instructed Submission Radio.
“An actual striker is somebody who has lots of mixtures, very totally different alternatives. He’s simply taught effectively: one punch and ship in it. Nevertheless it doesn’t imply having good way and timing and different stuff. So I feel he’s not a very good striker due to it.”
Vakhitov and Pereira fought twice in Glory Kickboxing in back-to-back bouts. Pereria received 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 mentioned 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 Collection 75 from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
“Sure, for positive I noticed it, and he may say now no matter he desires. However the time will come, and he’ll change his opinion, I’m positive,” Vakhitov mentioned. “Preventing in small gloves is a unique sport. We have now an excellent and skilled group. For positive sooner or later, if the struggle would occur, we might do every thing to be prepared for it.”
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