Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz is set to face undefeated prospect Navajo Stirling at UFC Belgrade on Saturday at the Belgrade Arena in Serbia.
Blachowicz, who holds a 29-11-2 professional record, was originally scheduled to fight Bogdan Guskov.
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However, a late roster reshuffle assigned Guskov to a bout in Abu Dhabi, according to Cageside Press.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Blachowicz said he avoided studying Guskov's recent fight to keep his focus on the upcoming challenge.
"I don't watch this fight because I've got my fight so I focus about me," said Blachowicz.
The former champion said he plans to review the tape later before forming an opinion.
"I just hear that it was little bit boring fight, but I don't watch it.
I need to watch it later and then I going to have my opinion," said Blachowicz.
Despite Stirling's youth and speed, Blachowicz sees the matchup as an exciting stand-up battle that suits his striking preference.
"Another guy who I have to beat and stop it. Great, young fighter, with good stand up skills.
It's going to be good fight to watch because I also like fighting stand up, so let's go.
Let's do it one more time," said Blachowicz.
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While acknowledging Stirling's perfect 10-0 record, Blachowicz expressed confidence that his veteran composure and octagon experience will be decisive.
