LAS VEGAS – Anthony Smith took intention on the gentle heavyweight division for not stepping as much as battle him at UFC 303.
After Carlos Ulberg was compelled out on account of damage, Smith (38-19 MMA, 13-9 UFC) drew middleweight Roman Dolidze (12-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) on Saturday’s predominant card (pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+) at T-Cellular Enviornment in Las Vegas. The previous title challenger is stunned that Dolidze, who competed at 185 kilos for his previous seven fights, is the one stepping as much as take the battle.
“So far as influence goes, I believe him shifting up says rather a lot about my division,” Smith advised MMA Junkie and different reporters at a pre-fight information convention Wednesday. “So, for those who guys need to do your jobs, go ask each accessible gentle heavyweight why there’s a middleweight preventing this battle. They’re going to make up a bunch of sh*t, however I believe you guys can learn between the traces.
“Each single one in every of them mentioned no. So, I’m the veteran, I’m the gatekeeper, like no matter these guys say. ‘Properly, why is Anthony getting paid a lot and why does he get this chance?’ As a result of I’m prepared to do that sh*t that you just guys gained’t do. Me preventing a middleweight on Saturday proves that to all people. I believe all these guys simply received uncovered.”
Nonetheless, Smith is trying ahead to preventing Dolidze.
“It’s onerous to not need to battle a man like Dolidze, and I imply that with the utmost respect,” Smith mentioned. “He’s an absolute canine. He brings the battle; you don’t should persuade him to battle. He’s received an amazing skillset, I believe his model mends properly with mine. It meshes properly with mine the place we are able to – I believe we’re going to have a goddamn barnburner.”
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