Stipe Miocic has defeated some of the best heavyweights in history like Junior Dos Santos or Alistair Overeem, as well as fought against other great names. But, has he ever competed against someone like Francis Ngannou? This fighter has gained recognition for being the best striker in the UFC.
Yesterday, the first press conference for UFC 220 was held, and the heavyweight champion talked about whether he is intimidated by the contender.
"Why would I be intimidated? I will keep doing what I do and keep winning. Francis Ngannou is a great fighter. I think everyone wants to see him knock me out, but that's not going to happen. The odds say he is the favorite. But I like it that way because then I can silence people."
On his part, the contender made the following comments about the champion.
"Don't lie, Stipe Miocic. Of course he is intimidated. He knows what's going to happen."
In the middle of the month, the champion also talked about his upcoming fight.
"I think Francis Ngannou is a great fighter. But nothing is going to change. I will come out with the belt around my waist. I'm excited for him, but as long as I'm here, no one else is going to be champion. He stands out for his striking power, but in the heavyweight division, everyone hits hard. I have fought against Junior Dos Santos, Roy Nelson, Mark Hunt. I have fought against guys who hit hard. I will find out what he has on January 20. I think I will do well. I have the best coaches in the world."
The fight card, which is not yet complete, is as follows:
Stipe Miocic (c) vs. Francis Ngannou
Daniel Cormier (c) vs. Volkan Oezdemir
Calvin Kattar vs. Shane Burgos
Gian Villante vs. Francimar Barroso
Dustin Ortiz vs. Alexandre Pantoja
Abdul Razak Alhassan vs. Sabah Homasi
Islam Makhachev vs. Gleison Tibau
Kyle Bochniak vs. Brandon Davis
Thomas Almeida vs. Rob Font
Source: BJPenn.com