Despite this baptism of fire, Soldic says he’s ready and has a lot of respect for his opponent but will offer something he’s never seen before.
“You can see I never choose my opponent, they immediately put me on fire against a very tough guy,” he said. “I respect him a lot, 11-0, but I can say he’s never faced anyone like me. I’m like something else I’m a southpaw, I’m a very dangerous guy and it won’t be easy for him. Also, I have no weight loss. That is good for me. I’m feeling very, very good, very strong, and I’m always on my weight. I’m performing well, lots of strength, good condition and my mind is there.”
According to Soldic, Ramazanov is a typical modern, well-rounded fighter with the traditional wrestling skills associated with Dagestani athletes today. He also believes he’s been fighting stronger competition and has a greater hunger for battle.
“He’s also a complete MMA fighter, like everyone is today. Everyone knows about jiu-jitsu, everyone knows about wrestling, boxing, physical conditioning, and now is a different time too. Also, MMA has grown up very quickly and we’re learning. People think I don’t train in wrestling because I I’ve finished my fights in stand up but I wrestle every day.
“I think I have more experience than him and the toughest fights. I also had better opponents, but I don’t underestimate anyone. I’m hungrier than him because he’s now 3-0 at ONE Championship. I don’t have fights because they give me murad right away and I’m there like a new cookie and he knows everything. I think I’m more experienced than him, I had the toughest fight.
I believe in myself and what can I say? It’s a very tough opponent for me and I like that. I can’t wait for the fight.”
Soldic is focused on getting a first win in ONE and doesn’t care how that comes about.
“Just win,” he said. “I don’t care how. Just surrender, points, KO, doesn’t matter to me. I just want to win the fight. Be smart, be sharp, be fast. People always expect KO’s from me because most of my fights have been KO’d so I think – surprise – also submission, I have good jiu-jitsu too. I believe in it and only to win. I see a good fight.”
ONE Fight Night 5: De Ridder vs Malykhin will be held on Saturday December 3rd at 5am GST at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila. This is a night not to be missed, so mark your calendars, download the ONE Super App and go to watch.onefc.com now!
