WWE

Brendan Loughnane Set to Make History with PFL Featherweight Championship Bout Against Timur Khizriev

December, 25, 2024-04:16

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Brendan Loughnane Set to Make History with PFL Featherweight Championship Bout Against Timur Khizriev

Brendan Loughnane is gearing up for a momentous fight that could secure his place in MMA history. The British fighter is set to battle Timur Khizriev for the PFL Featherweight Championship once again, and his confidence is unwavering as he prepares for the high-stakes clash. In a candid interview with Mail Sport, Loughnane shared his thoughts on the upcoming fight, his career, and his unshakable belief in his abilities.

Despite the magnitude of the event, Loughnane exudes a calm and composed demeanor, downplaying any pressure. "I think there's just no pressure. It's like, all right, well, I've already got a PFL title," he said. "Let's just have a little crack at it, see how it goes. There's no stress on the outcome, because no one can ever take away the fact that I was a champion." He added that he was simply looking forward to the challenge ahead, viewing it as an opportunity to test himself once more.

Loughnane, who has faced tough opponents throughout his career, acknowledged Khizriev's undefeated record but emphasized his own wealth of experience. "Yeah, it's not the first undefeated fighter. I remember when I was undefeated," he said. "But my experience is going to come into play here in this fight. I'm way too experienced, and my fight IQ is too high for this guy." His strategy for the fight is simple—neutralize Khizriev's grappling game and secure a knockout victory. "He's going to try and grab hold of me, and I'm going to try and knock him out. And that's exactly what's going to happen," he explained.

While there’s a £1 million prize awaiting the victor, Loughnane insists that money is not his primary motivator. "I mean, the money is the money. The money comes and goes," he said. "But the fact that I'm going to get a picture to put on my mantelpiece from the grandkids with two massive belts and two massive million-dollar checks—that’s legendary." Loughnane’s passion for martial arts shines through, as he reflects on his journey. "I just approach every fight camp the same. I just cover all bases, and then that’s it, whatever happens when it happens," he shared.

This upcoming fight marks his 14th PFL final, a testament to his experience in the sport. "I’ve fought in every different part of the stage. Like, I don’t care where it is. Could put it in my mum’s back garden if you want. Make no difference to me at all," he said. "I’m just in this now for the love of martial arts. I made some money, and I’ve invested it. I don’t need to do it. I just really enjoy fighting. I’m good at it. I’m hungry for it, and I want that second belt to take it around Manchester. That’s the plan." With the fight just around the corner, Loughnane remains focused on his passion for the sport, with no pressure, only excitement for what’s next.