UFC ace Neil Magny believes pandemic restrictions have led to even better training conditions as he finishes preparations for his Fight Night bout with Michael Chiesa at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena.
The welterweight fighter will get into The Octagon on Wednesday January 20 having won two of his three cards in 2020.
“It’s been kind of crazy,” he said. “Even during the pandemic training has been going pretty well. If anything it went better because it allowed the opportunity for the coaching guys to get more one-on-one time in sessions.
“Normally we have 30 to 40 athletes in the room training at one time, and it’s difficult for coaches to notice every single detail about your training.
“But because of the limited space and restrictions imposed on us we were forced to use smaller groups of people – we had four guys max per training group.
“This gave coaches an opportunity to focus on individual athletes, what their needs were and work on those things, as opposed to details getting lost.”
Magny has a 24-8-0 record going into the fight, and says the return of fans ringside can spur him to another victory in Abu Dhabi.
Spectators are making a return to live sporting events but enhanced safety measures are in place.
For the latest guidelines on crossing the border from elsewhere in the UAE, including follow-up testing, click here.
Magny said: “I’m really looking forward to the crowd being there. Live performance produces a different atmosphere so to speak. Their energy is going to be what drives me to victory.”
To do so he will have to overcome an opponent with his own 17-4-0 record, and Magny knows he will have to be at his best.
He said: “He’s beaten a lot of tough competition over the past couple of year since moving up to welterweight.
“I feel this fight is going to force me to dig deep and bring out the best of me. I understand I have to bring my A-game on Fight night and I’m definitely determined to do that. It’s going to be a good night for me.
“It’s an honour to go out there and be able to do what I love in front of you guys. I look forward to giving you guys week after week. I look forward to giving you guys an amazing performance on Wednesday. Tune in and check it out.”
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