UFC "kind of expected me" to fight Robert Whittaker, says Ikram Aliskerov amid messy weight-cut on short-notice

Ikram Aliskerov is stepping into the octagon on short notice for the UFC on ABC 6 main event clash with Robert Whittaker this Saturday in Saudi Arabia. Aliskerov was in the final stages of his weight cut for his previously scheduled fight against Antonio Trócoli at UFC Vegas 93.

However, after being pulled to serve as a replacement for Khamzat Chimaev, he had to essentially pause his weight cut, travel, and restart the entire process. Despite the difficulties, Aliskerov readily accepted the fight.

Speaking to MMA Junkie, he said:

"This is what we do,We’re fighters. This is our sport. This is our life. I even put it on my Instagram, ‘Anyone, anywhere, at any time.’ It’s the type of motto I live by and you have to live by it if you want to fight on the top level. I was ready for this. I don’t care if it was five rounds or 10 rounds, you have to be ready for anything being thrown your way and that’s what I live by.”

While a significant underdog against the former middleweight champion Whittaker, Aliskerov believes he presents a tough challenge. He entered the UFC with a perfect record and has looked impressive in his two victories. Aliskerov interprets the UFC's offer as a sign of their confidence in his abilities.

"The way I was speaking to Ali, my manager, is the way it sounded is the UFC kind of expected me to have this fight. They think I’m ready, that I’m that level of an opponent that I should be accepting this fight. I think that’s great. It makes me think that the UFC values me. They know what I’m worth. They know what I’m capable of, so I think it’s right that I’m a tougher matchup.”

Check out Ikram Aliskerov's interview below:

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Ikram Aliskerov reveals Khabib Nurmagomedov's advice for short-notice UFC Saudi Arabia fight

In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, Ikram Aliskerov revealed he sought guidance from UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov after accepting the short-notice fight against Robert Whittaker at UFC Saudi Arabia.

While keeping the specifics private, Aliskerov revealed Nurmagomedov emphasizing the importance of seizing the opportunity.

Aliskerov said:

"He said, 'You can't miss these chances. You have to fly here and sweat for two to three days. There's also the adaptation. It's a 10-hour difference with Vegas here. It's easier to fly here from Miami when there's a seven-hour difference.' We discussed it [the fight], but I won't get into it. 'Pay attention because he's a striker. Be attentive, and everything will work out.'"

Check out Ikram Aliskerov's comments below: