UFC Fight Night 243, set to take place on September 28 at the Accor Arena in Paris, promises to be a night filled with high-stakes matchups. The event’s co-main event will feature a compelling clash between Brendan Allen (24-5 MMA, 12-2 UFC) and Nassourdine Imavov (14-4 MMA, 6-2).
Despite the excitement surrounding this bout, Brendan Allen has expressed his frustration over the event’s scheduling, questioning why his fight isn’t receiving the higher billing he feels it deserves.
A Surprising Co-Main Event Decision
The main event of UFC Fight Night 243 will spotlight a lightweight bout between Benoit Saint Denis and Renato Moicano. However, Allen, who is known for his competitive spirit, is baffled by the decision to place this fight above his own.
He argues that his matchup with Imavov, both highly ranked fighters, should be the centerpiece of the event. Brendan Allen voiced his frustration in an interview with MMA News, stating, “Some people just need all the deck in their favor to try and win, but it’s not going to be enough.
I’m still going to win. I accepted the five rounds. I asked for the five rounds. I’ve heard the explanations, but I still don’t agree or understand it. It’s above my pay grade. I think it’s bulls**t that (Nos.) 10 and 12 guys are main event over (Nos.) 4 and 7, where we have title contentions that are possibly surrounding our fight.”
The Case for a Five-Round Co-Main Event
In recent months, the UFC has increasingly featured five-round co-main events. Brendan Allen believes that his fight against Imavov is significant enough to warrant this treatment. The stakes are high, and a five-round format would not only provide fans with an extended showcase but also allow the fighters to prove their endurance and skill over a longer period.
Allen didn’t hold back his criticism of Imavov’s reluctance to accept a five-round bout. “I think it’s kind of a b***h move that he doesn’t want to accept five rounds,” Allen said. “You want to fight for the belt? You want to stake your claim? Like, that’s how you do it. You go out there and win a five-round fight, even if it doesn’t go five rounds.”
A Display of Sportsmanship and Professionalism
Despite his frustration, remarks by Brendan Allen underline his commitment to the sport and his desire to showcase his skills. He sees the five-round fight as an opportunity to demonstrate his readiness for a title shot. His willingness to accept the challenge reflects his confidence and readiness to face Imavov in what he believes is a more fitting format for their high-profile bout.
Allen’s perspective also highlights the broader discussion within the UFC about fight scheduling and the criteria used to determine main event status. His comments suggest a need for consistency in how fights are promoted, particularly when considering fighters of similar rankings and stakes.
Looking Ahead to UFC Fight Night 243
As the event approaches, fans can look forward to a night of electrifying fights. The main event between Saint Denis and Moicano is expected to deliver thrilling action, while the co-main event featuring Allen and Imavov promises to be a pivotal matchup in the middleweight division.
Frustrated Branden Allen and the fight’s billing aside, UFC Fight Night 243 is shaping up to be an exciting event that will showcase some of the best talent in mixed martial arts. Both Allen and Imavov have the potential to make significant strides in their careers with a standout performance, regardless of the scheduling decisions.
Brendan Allen and his vocal stance on the fight’s placement reveals his competitive nature and dedication to his craft. As he prepares for his bout with Imavov, fans will be eager to see how the fight unfolds and whether Allen’s concerns will add an extra edge to his performance in the octagon.
