Rising knockout artist Bogdan Guskov embraces the pressure of facing former light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz at UFC 323, viewing it as a pivotal opportunity to advance his career and potentially enter the top-10 of the division.
Rising knockout artist Bogdan Guskov is embracing the pressure as he faces a former light heavyweight champion at UFC 323. A victory over Jan Blachowicz could be a game-changer for his career.
Guskov has been on a roll, stopping four opponents in a row. He knocked out Nikita Krylov, Billy Elekana, Ryan Spann, and Zac Pauga. Now, he’s thrilled to face someone who’s beaten stars like Israel Adesanya and Corey Anderson.
“The opponent is a very tough guy, former champion,” Guskov told MMA Fighting. “Big step in my career. This is the moment I can change my career, change my life.”
Facing someone at the top of the division makes Guskov feel like he belongs among the best. But he knows not to underestimate Blachowicz, who has had impressive wins and a recent draw with Magomed Ankalaev.
“I think the cage will show everything, you know?” Guskov said. “This guy is tough, about power. He’s old, but, like man power, you know? I need to show my smart power.”
A win on Saturday could propel Guskov into the top 10 of the light heavyweight division. But he’s focused on the fight, not matchmaking, even as the title picture could change with Alex Pereira considering a move to heavyweight.
“After this fight, maybe one more step and then a title shot. I believe this. I hope,” Guskov said. “If Alex goes to heavyweight, we have other good names. Carlos Ulberg, Jiri Prochazka, [Jamahal] Hill said he will come back next year.”
Guskov doesn’t want to fight Hill, but he’s open to it if it means a title shot. “He’s a good guy. Every time we meet at the UFC Performance Institute, we talk. He’s a very, very good guy.”