Santiago Ponzinibbio stands right this moment 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 acquired a couple 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 achieved evolving, and he intends to show that to the MMA world.
“No, by no means,” 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 may see the top a lot nearer than some years again. I used to simply see it as one thing that’s thus far 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 present, and there may be loads of runway forward.
“I really feel nice, and I’ve the talents to beat one of the best within the division. If I get in there, and I’m in a position to carry out properly with none well being points or issues like a few of my earlier fights, as a result of because of completely different causes I wasn’t in a position to carry out at my greatest technically. I’ve gained some current fights with my coronary heart however not with my approach. I feel throughout this day off I used to be in a position to handle a couple of points, and I feel individuals will see a brand new model of Santiago Ponzinibbio the place I’ll carry out one hundred pc and present I’m able to competing at a excessive degree. So to inform you the reality, retirement isn’t one thing that crosses my thoughts.”
Ponzinibbio, 37, expects to be preventing 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 maintain climbing the welterweight mountain.
“I’m right here for some time longer. Retirement isn’t one thing that crosses my thoughts.” Ponzinibbio stated. “What does cross my thoughts is successful in spectacular trend on this co-main occasion bout and making a fast return, so I can maintain climbing up the division.
“I do know if I’m in a position to carry out one hundred pc, I can beat anybody at 170 kilos. I don’t say this to be boastful. I simply trust in my work and what I see within the fitness center daily. I’m blissful and assured with this chance, and I’m in second.”
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