Sharabutdin Magomedov has not fought since his spectacular promotional debut at UFC 294. Magomedov bagged a spot at the UFC’s promotional debut in Saudi Arabia. However, he had his opponent changed twice, the latest being days away from the fight.
Ihor Potieria was the original opponent but pulled out to fight at UFC 301. Joilton Santos was the replacement but withdrew due to a doping violation. Antonio Trocoli has now stepped up to face Magomedov on three days’ notice in his promotional debut.
Magomedov Confident Despite Trocoli’s Reach Advantage
Sharabutdin Magomedov is 6’2” with a 73″ reach. On the other hand, Trocoli is 6’5″ with an 82″ reach which is quite big for a middleweight. For context, Alex Pereira, the light heavyweight champion, is 6’4″ with a 79″ reach. Magomedov spoke of it on media day at UFC Saudi Arabia.
“He’s a very tall guy. He is taller than Alex Pereira, and I think he’s larger than him. So I don’t know, we will figure out a way to deal with it in the fight,” said an unconcerned Magomedov, who added, “I don’t think he’s gonna get away from my kicks. I don’t think he’s gonna get away from my elbows.”
Moreover, Magomedov does not think Antonio Trocoli will utilize his reach advantage over him. He revealed that he expects a grappling-heavy approach from Trocoli, who bagged a UFC contract in 2019 with a submission victory. However, he had three fights canceled in the UFC after the win.
The fight against Magomedov will be Trocoli’s first MMA bout at middleweight. He began his career as a welterweight but moved to light heavyweight after three consecutive losses. Many think Trocoli can secure an upset victory due to Magomedov’s grappling deficiency.
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