“I Will Rule This Division” – Petr Yan Predicts How His Fight With Jose Aldo Will Turn Out

Petr Yan will soon be fighting for the UFC belt. Only six fights into his UFC career, Yan will face longtime Featherweight champ Jose Aldo for the belt next month at Yas Island on June 11th. The Russian is ready for a haymaker against Aldo. He knows very well what the Brazilian will bring to the table.

While talking to MMA Junkie, Yan acknowledged that Aldo is a seasoned campaigner. Even after dropping down a weight class, Aldo hasn’t lost a step. He lost his Bantamweight debut against Marlon Moraes in a close split decision. However, he showed that he can hang out with the best in the division. Petr is preparing to go full five rounds against Aldo.

“Aldo is a very experienced and well-trained fighter,” Yan said. “He doesn’t make many mistakes. He will be ready to go the full distance. But I believe I have the ability and tools to defeat him. I have no doubt it will be an exciting contest. It is because our styles match up very well.

“I envision this fight will end with my hand being raised. I believe I can defeat every fighter in my division.”

UFC’s choice of Jose Aldo for a title shot wasn’t surprising for Petr Yan

Petr Yan defeated Urijah Faber in his last fight. The UFC had booked him against Marlon Moraes to headline the event at Khazakstan. However, Cejudo’s retirement and the Covid-19 pandemic worked together to give Yan a title shot. The UFC’s decision to give Jose Aldo a title shot has met with criticism. However, Yan claims that he saw it coming.

With other top contenders already booked, Yan knew it was Moraes or Aldo who will face him for the vacated belt.

“After Sterling was booked to fight Sandhagaen, I knew it would be either Aldo or (Marlon) Moraes,” Yan said. “I wasn’t surprised that UFC chose Aldo because he was supposed to fight for the title in May, anyway. Right now, I can’t dictate who I want to fight. I’m the challenger for the vacant belt, and I’m taking advantage of this opportunity.”

The UFC Bantamweight division is receiving unprecedented attention after UFC 250. The division is brimming with contenders such as Aljamain Sterling, Cody Garbrandt, and Sean O’Malley. Yan was impressed with the performance of his fellow Bantamweights who fought at UFC 250. Regardless, he is confident in his abilities.

“I’m excited to face all top contenders in the future and have belief in myself I will rule this division for a long time,” Yan added.