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Fighters have always been known to have interesting pre-fight rituals. Some may indulge in extensive warm-up routines, visualization techniques, or even unique superstitions. Whatever it may be, these rituals are what set fighters apart from one another and prepare them mentally for the upcoming battle.

At UFC Vegas 71, one fighter, in particular, caught the attention of fans and spectators. Sergei Pavlovich, a Russian heavyweight, was seen playing slots at a casino just hours before his fight with Curtis Blaydes. The video went viral, and it left fans wondering what was going through Pavlovich‘s mind. The Russian himself answered the queries of the fans after his victory against Blaydes.

Sergei Pavlovich about his pre-fight casino video

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It was very unexpected for Pavlovich to be seen playing slots just hours before one of the biggest fights of his career. Media personnel asked about the video after his win. Pavlovich revealed that he had never played in a casino before, and his friend asked him to give it a try. The Russian fighter also revealed that he lost the money on the slot machine.

“To be honest, I have never gambled. I have never played any of those things. And a buddy of mine was like, here is 100 bucks, play and try it, see how you feel. And then somebody else shot the video, and now there you go. Lose!”

Read MoreSergei Pavlovich Gunning for the Title After TKO Win Over Curtis Blaydes – “Ready for Whoever They Give Me”

Fans had some very interesting things to say about Russian professional mixed martial artist’s bizarre pre-fight ritual. Here are some of the fan reactions.

Some complimented the jolly smile on Pavlovich’s face.

Many others praised the journalist for asking the question.

It seems like people were interested in knowing the answer to this burning question.

Some pointed out Pavlovich’s laughter

Others talked about his win bonus

Another one had an interesting observation

It impressed many by how the Russian heavyweight answered the question

One loved Pavlovich’s attitude

Fans enjoyed watching Pavlovich’s candid response to his viral video. The heavyweight star had a different demeanor inside the octagon during the main event as he continued his streak of securing 1st round wins.

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Sergei Pavlovich and 1st round victories

Pavlovich defeated Curtis Blaydes via a first-round KO. However, this is not the first time his fight has ended in this manner. In fact, Pavlovich’s every fight in the UFC has ended via a first-round KO/TKO. Making his debut in 2018, he lost his first and only fight to Alistair Overeem. Since then, the Russian has amassed a 6 fight win streak, with none of them crossing the first round of the bout.

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With the win against one of the top heavyweight contenders, Pavlovich is one step closer to a title shot. Would you like to see him face the UFC Legend Jon Jones for the heavyweight title? What did you make of Pavlovich’s pre-fight ritual and his explanation regarding the same? Let us know in the comments below.

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