With a new UFC contract in their pockets, light heavyweight contender Misha Cirkunov will return to the Octagon on May 28 to face Volkan Oezdemir in the semi-final of the Fight Night at Stockholm.
According to the reports, this fight must be approved by the Swedish Commission (SMMAF). The main even of this card will feature former aspirants for the category, Alexander Gustafsson and Glover Teixeira.
Asked by media, Cirkunov revealed that he is cannot wait and very excited against Volkan in the Octagon. “Volkan is young, he brings new blood, he’s very talented and he’s able to defeat the veterans,” Cirkunov told to media. “It is the semi-final and I am very excited for this fight. I work hard and I cannot wait about it.” he added.
Cirkunov has made a start since he made his UFC debut in August 2015 in Saskatoon when he defeated Daniel Jolly by KO. The Toronto-based fighter has a record of 4-0, he also beat Alex Nichoson, Ion Cutelaba and Nikita Krylov in the previous fight. He is on a series of eight consecutive victories that began before his arrival in the UFC, he holds a13-2 record in mixed martial arts. However, it will be his first fight outside of US, and only his third one outside of Canada.
“I have all my attention turned towards the goal. I’m here to do my job and win the fight.” said the Canadian to the media with a smile. “I’m just happy to be back in the biggest organization in the world. It was tough weeks in terms of contract renewal and all that, but what people do not understand. Yes, I was released, but then I signed it once again.” Cirkunov added.
On the other side, Oezdemir has made his Octagon debut on short notice back in the February, when he faced Ovince Saint Preux at UFC Houston, United States of America. This win by split decision brought his record to 13-1, of which 9 victories by KO. But his performance is much better than his rival at the rank.
Cirkunov punches his rival in the Octagon of UFC fight. (Source:www.mmacrossfire.com)
The negotiations for a new contract were tough. UFC President Dana White said that the fighter had refused an offer at the last moment and that he no longer wanted to try to keep Cirkunov in the organization. Eventually, both sides reached an agreement
