Your title defense was rescheduled, give us your thoughts on that?
- Yes, I was suppose to fight on January 27th in Grozny but it didn't happen. At the last stage of my preparation, when all work was done, I had to get a surgery, so we were forced to reschedule the fight. Unfortunately, injuries are a part of the game and I was really disappointed because of what happened but everyone understand that it could happen to any athlete.
How did you recover after the injury and how do you feel now?
- Even though I got injured I didn't want to take a long lay off, so as soon as doctors allowed me to train I've started my preparation. Of course I was disappointed that I couldn't fight in Grozny on January 27th but after I got the new date everything has fallen into place. We continue our work!
Now you're fighting in the biggest card in the history of ACB and Russian MMA, how excited are you about this?
- ACB 86 which will take place in Moscow on May 5th is going to be great! ACB's management and matchmakers did a good job of stacking the card with interesting and highly competitive, close match-ups. I'm really thankful for the opportunity to fight and defend my title on such a great event and I fully understand that it's a big responsibility.
What can you say about the support you receive?
- Right now I'm focused on my preparation so I don't have much time to communicate with the fans. I'm doing as little media as possible and I don't even have time to hang out with my family and friends. Thankfully, they understand the situation and I'm really grateful for all the people who help me in my preparation and who support me and who believe in me! Thank you all!
