To Oezdemir, that’s the biggest key to this UFC light heavyweight showcase – staying smart and staying sharp during the fight’s big moments.
MORE UFC LONDON: Blaydes Is On A Different Level | Aspinall Is Searching For Answers | McCann Has Arrived | Pimblett Doesn’t Feel The Pressure
“The thing is to not be overzealous with him or to get too excited. If you hurt him, I think he could be the type of guy who plays hurt and then he locks you into a triangle,” Oezdemir said. “It’s part of the thing with him; you don’t want to rush yourself into a knockout because this guy will surprise you. A bad surprise.
“It’s a question of who can make stay smart, and whoever makes the best decisions will win the fight.”
It’s cliché to say that styles make fights, but that’s truly what makes this bout between Oezdemir and Craig interesting. Oezdemir is aiming to drown out Craig’s style and eliminate dangerous situations.
And if he can execute the way he’s prepared to, he’ll be right back on track to the top of the light heavyweight division.
“We are both Top 10 in the UFC so it’s about who implements their gameplan better,” Oezdemir said. “I know I come here with all my will and all my strength and I’m ready to impose myself.”
“In the O2, everything is like times ten, so I’m going to bring it.”