Beneil Dariush remains focused on competing against formidable opponents while expressing gratitude towards his fans. His upcoming bout against Benoit Saint Denis is now featured on the main card of UFC 322, which takes place at Madison Square Garden.
Beneil Dariush’s Thoughts on UFC 322 Card Changes
Initially, Dariush’s fight was set as the featured prelim. However, lineup adjustments saw him elevated back to the main card, with the fight between Bo Nickal and Rodolfo Vieira taking the prelim spotlight. Dariush expressed a mature perspective on this shift, appreciating the UFC’s recognition of his career.
Respect for His Opponents
- Dariush has a great respect for Rodolfo Vieira, considering him a significant figure in the jiu-jitsu community.
- He is a fan of Bo Nickal’s wrestling style, acknowledging Nickal’s unique approach to the sport.
Despite the ranking implications and reactions from fans regarding the fight order, Dariush articulated that he focuses more on the opportunity to fight rather than the status of the card. “I didn’t think much about it,” he noted, emphasizing his perspective on the bout’s placement.
No Financial Incentives
Dariush explained that the financial structure of UFC fights does not vary significantly with card placement. He stated, “It’s not like I get paid more to be on the main card,” suggesting that his primary aim is to compete rather than to chase prestige that comes with the card’s hierarchy.
Fan Support
While Dariush downplayed concerns about being on the prelims, he was appreciative of the fans who rallied in support of his placement. He expressed gratitude, reiterating that he values his supporters despite being less active on social media. “The fans have been very good to me,” he said.
Upcoming Fight Against Benoit Saint Denis
As he prepares for his November 15 bout, Dariush is eager to return to the octagon after defeating Renato Moicano in June. This victory ended a challenging period for him, where he faced doubts about his career after losses to Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan.
- Dariush was previously contemplating his future in the sport.
- He aims to showcase his improvement and skill during his fight against Saint Denis.
Saint Denis enters this match with his own momentum, having secured a two-fight win streak following previous losses. Dariush opted for this matchup rather than pursuing fights against other higher-ranked opponents, as he was keen to remain active in his career.
Conclusion
As UFC 322 approaches, Beneil Dariush looks forward to making a statement in the octagon. He is determined to entertain fans and demonstrate his ongoing evolution as a fighter. “I’m stoked for this fight,” he remarked, showcasing his readiness to deliver a remarkable performance.
