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Ahead of his latest bout with Brendan Allen, UFC star Edmen Shahbazyan reflects on his journey and resurgence.
Edmen Shahbazyan is an Armenian at heart. (AFP Photo)
Edmen Shahbazyan enters UFC Fight Night on a three-fight winning streak, looking to extend his resurgence in the middleweight division. The 28-year-old former top prospect owns a professional record of 16-5, with 13 wins by knockout and as many first-round finishes, showcasing the finishing ability that once made him one of the division’s most hyped fighters. After early success and setbacks inside the Octagon, Shahbazyan now faces Brendan Allen, ranked fourth, in a high-stakes matchup that could push him back toward the division’s elite rankings.
Ahead of his latest bout, News18 Sports caught up with Shahbazyan for a conversation on various aspects of his journey in the UFC.
EXCERPTS
You started training at a very young age. What convinced you that fighting was more than just a hobby?
Honestly, it was about being consistent. My brother and I fell in love with the sport and the competition when we started competing. The drive to be better is what motivated us and what made us pursue this path.
How has your Armenian heritage shaped you?
Absolutely. I’m Armenian at heart. My parents are both Armenian, so I always want to represent my roots wherever I am. Armenians have always supported me, and they hold a special place in my heart. I’m always proud to represent Armenia.
You came up in the same gym during Ronda Rousey’s rise to superstardom. What was it like witnessing that period from the inside?
It was awesome. Seeing her rise and the high level she competed at when I was young was a big deal. Witnessing it firsthand was a great experience, and it showed me what the future could potentially look like.
What was it like reaching UFC at an early age?
Reaching that level at such a young age showed my talent. I’ve had my ups and downs in the UFC, but I’m happy I experienced those challenges early because I learned valuable lessons from them.
How did you handle the weight of early expectations?
I’ve had my ups and downs, and I’m grateful for them because they’ve shaped me into a better fighter and a better person. I’m on a good streak now, and looking forward to making another statement on Saturday.
How has your understanding of your own fighting style evolved?
I think my entire game has improved. By learning every day and working with great coaches and training partners, I’ve developed all aspects of my skill set. I feel very well-rounded now and dangerous wherever the fight goes.
What’s the biggest mental challenge of being a professional MMA athlete?
The biggest mental challenge is staying fully locked in during training camp. You’re preparing for a specific opponent, so you have to dedicate time to studying their fights and structuring your training accordingly. Everything has to be planned properly so you’re peaking at the right time and entering the fight feeling your best.
Has your definition of success changed since your UFC debut?
A championship is the ultimate goal. That’s my biggest motivation. I also focus on becoming a better fighter every day and being the best version of myself.
You are on a three-fight winning streak and Brendan Allen has won his previous two fights as well. How do you rate your chances?
Whatever happens, I plan to win. There’s no doubt about that. I’ve trained very hard, I’m motivated, and I can’t wait to showcase my skills.
What motivates you most at this stage of your career?
What motivates me most is becoming a better fighter every day and striving to be the best version of myself. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a champion, and I’m going to work as hard as I can to achieve it.
Years from now, what do you hope people remember most about you?
Most importantly, I hope people remember me as a good, honest person. I want people to have only good things to say about me. That’s what matters most.
Fighting can be a consuming profession. Outside the gym, what keeps you grounded?
My family, my wife and my son – they definitely keep me grounded. My faith in God is also very important to me.
What’s one piece of advice you would give an up-and-coming fighter?
Make sure you’re truly passionate about it and fully committed, with both feet in and not one foot out the door.
Is there any particular loss that taught you more about yourself?
Absolutely. Every loss has taught me something valuable. My wins have taught me lessons too, but my losses have had the biggest impact. They’ve helped me identify my weaknesses and work on them so I can continue improving as a fighter.
About the Author
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience …Read More
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