Santiago Ponzinibbio stands immediately as some of the seasoned and skilled fighters within the UFC welterweight division. But, regardless of his lengthy tenure, the Argentine is assured he’s bought a number of extra chapters to his storied profession.
The 36-fight veteran, who’s been competing within the UFC since 2013, believes followers will witness a brand new model of himself in his return Saturday. Ponzinibbio (29-7 MMA, 11-6 UFC) takes on Muslim Salikhov (19-5 MMA, 6-4 UFC) within the co-main occasion of UFC on ESPN 59 at Ball Enviornment in Denver.
Ponzinibbio assures he’s not near retirement and never finished evolving, and he intends to show that to the MMA world.
“No, under no circumstances,” Ponzinibbio instructed MMA Junkie in Spanish when requested a couple of potential retirement. “It’s true that I’m at a stage the place you possibly can see the top a lot nearer than some years again. I used to only see it as one thing that’s up to now as a result of I at all times felt good, in order that day simply appeared like it might by no means come. I’m nearer to that day now, however I nonetheless really feel I’ve rather a lot left. I’ve rather a lot left to offer, and there’s loads of runway forward.
“I really feel nice, and I’ve the talents to beat the very best within the division. If I get in there, and I’m capable of carry out nicely with none well being points or issues like a few of my earlier fights, as a result of on account of completely different causes I wasn’t capable of carry out at my finest technically. I’ve gained some latest fights with my coronary heart however not with my method. I believe throughout this break day I used to be capable of handle a number of points, and I believe folks will see a brand new model of Santiago Ponzinibbio the place I’ll carry out 100% and present I’m able to competing at a excessive degree. So to let you know the reality, retirement shouldn’t be one thing that crosses my thoughts.”
Ponzinibbio, 37, expects to be combating for fairly a while, though he didn’t give a timeframe as to when he’d ideally wish to stroll away from the game. His sole focus is on defeating Salikhov this Saturday and hold climbing the welterweight mountain.
“I’m right here for some time longer. Retirement shouldn’t be one thing that crosses my thoughts.” Ponzinibbio mentioned. “What does cross my thoughts is successful in spectacular style on this co-main occasion bout and making a fast return, so I can hold climbing up the division.
“I do know if I’m capable of carry out 100%, I can beat anybody at 170 kilos. I don’t say this to be smug. I simply trust in my work and what I see within the fitness center each day. I’m completely satisfied and assured with this chance, and I’m in a great second.”
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