Earlier this year, Hermansson faced Curtis’ teammate, Sean Strickland, and lost via split decision. Since that fight, the 34-year-old has reflected and understands what went right and what went wrong, and he plans on applying those changes to his fight on Saturday.
“In the Strickland fight I got really frustrated when I couldn’t get my game going and I wasn’t able to adjust during the fight, so I think that’s what I’m taking from that fight, that if I get that same feeling I’m not going to force the things that I want,” Hermansson said. “I’m going to create the right moment instead of forcing it. I think that’s going to be the difference.”
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“The Joker” has stepped out of the Octagon with a bag of mixed results throughout his last five fights, going 2-3 following a four-fight win streak. Hermansson currently sits ranked No. 8 in the middleweight division, while his previous opponent was No. 9. Even though his new opponent isn’t ranked, he isn’t looking past the skills he brings to the table.
“Chris has extremely heavy hands and at any time he can put your lights out, so I know it’s very important that I want to hit him and not get hit,” Hermansson said. “That’s very important in this fight. He has those heavy hands and is always dangerous. His boxing is his main game, great takedown defense, as well, so he’s a solid opponent.
“Somebody has to be the first one to take him down and that’s going to be me.”
