LAS VEGAS – Edmen Shahbazyan isn't going to let Saturday's UFC Fight Night 278 opportunity slip through his fingers.
Shahbazyan (26-7 MMA, 14-4 UFC) is on the advantageous side of a unexpected matchup against top-ranked middleweight contender Brendan Allen (16-5 MMA, 9-5 UFC) at the META APEX (Paramount+). A victory would flip the trajectory of his career, and although he's rightfully the underdog, he vows not to mess it up.
"I wouldn't take back anything that happened in the past," Shahbazyan told MMA Junkie of his prior setbacks. "It's God's timing. Here we are. I'm a lot better fighter today. More mature, more established and Saturday night is going to be a good night. I promise.
"He's a good opponent. Tough fighter, durable fighter – but I'm ready for this moment. I'm ready to go Saturday night."
If Shahbazyan can win, and do so in style, he would vault into the upper echelon at 185 pounds. He's certain that's where he belongs, even if it might be a bit uncomfortable because his longtime Xtreme Couture teammate Sean Strickland currently holds the belt.
Shahbazyan (26-7 MMA, 14-4 UFC) is on the advantageous side of a unexpected matchup against top-ranked middleweight contender Brendan Allen (16-5 MMA, 9-5 UFC) at the META APEX (Paramount+). A victory would flip the trajectory of his career, and although he's rightfully the underdog, he vows not to mess it up.
"I wouldn't take back anything that happened in the past," Shahbazyan told MMA Junkie of his prior setbacks. "It's God's timing. Here we are. I'm a lot better fighter today. More mature, more established and Saturday night is going to be a good night. I promise.
"He's a good opponent. Tough fighter, durable fighter – but I'm ready for this moment. I'm ready to go Saturday night."
If Shahbazyan can win, and do so in style, he would vault into the upper echelon at 185 pounds. He's certain that's where he belongs, even if it might be a bit uncomfortable because his longtime Xtreme Couture teammate Sean Strickland currently holds the belt.
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