LONDON, United Kingdom — Another fight for UFC welterweight Gunnar Nelson, yet another change of opponent, but it’s nothing new as he faces Bryan Barberena at UFC 286 on Saturday night.
“I’m used to the change of opponent, and I think that happens a lot. I really don’t get too involved with my first opponent, if that makes sense,” Nelson told reporters Wednesday, including from Cageside Press. explain.
Nelson (18-5-1) was set to fight Daniel Rodriguez at UFC 286, but the latter withdrew due to injury. In December’s loss to Rafael Dos Anjos, Bryan Barberena took every step.
“Bam Bam is the stallion. He’s a veteran and I’m glad he came forward,” he said.
Nelson is used to changes in opponents, and while he did study Rodriguez, he felt he had to be prepared for changes on fight nights.
“I’m always (looking forward to what’s going to happen to my opponent) to be honest. I watch his game, I study him, but I don’t pay much attention to my opponent. Because I know it’s going to change, or it usually does, said Nelson.
Nelson wasn’t sure if he was going to fight his opponent, so he was just counting on showing up and hoping someone was standing in front of him ready to fight.
“I just settled in and thought I was really going to fight. So I’ll be there and whoever’s on the other side of the cage is fine,” he said.
“As long as there are people.”
At the end of the day, Barberena could be the more exciting matchup for Nelson, who loves a good fight.
“He’s exciting. I love his fights, you know he’s out there, he’s not trying to win on points. He’s going to try to end this fight. It’s been a thrill to watch him fight and I’m excited to share eight with him.” Angular,” Nelson said.
Watch the entire media day panel with Gunnar Nelson above. He takes on Bryan Barberena at UFC 286 at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday night.
