Malkoun will fight another heavy handed opponent on Saturday in AJ Dobson. Malkoun’s 30-year-old opponent has a 6-0, 1 NC record and enters the UFC after a first-round rear naked choke victory over Hashem Arkagha on Dana White’s Contender Series in September 2021.
Malkoun admits Dobson will be a tough test, but of course believes he is good enough to get the job done.
“He’s going to be a tough challenge, a tough test, he’s got knockout power, he’s a powerful, explosive guy, he’s got good grappling, too,” said Malkoun. “I just think I’m good enough, better than him and ready to go.”
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Malkoun has prepared alongside stablemate Whittaker, who will headline Saturday’s card as he attempts to reclaim the middleweight title from Israel Adesanya. Malkoun says that has helped, not hindered, his preparation.
“We’re both in camp, we both have the same mindset, all the other boys are all pushing us and we’re pushing hard so everybody wants to push each other to the limit, everyone’s trying to win in training.”
Malkoun does not offer a specific prediction for victory, but believes he will get the win, however that may be.
“I think I’m gonna win, I’m the better fighter, I think I’ll get the job done wherever it needs to happen.”
