Russia:
According to some slight trembles in the former Soviet Union a change MIGHT be in store. A complete pullout of Crimea and Ukraine? Highly unlikely, at least in this lifetime. But for one of it’s presently struggling stars. So will Petr Yan pull off another move now. It’s good to stay the course during rough times, but at what cost. And making constant moves only festers more issues. Like SHANE FALCO said in “The Replacements”, it’s like you’re in quicksand.
It’s trickled out via RED CORNER MMA that the 30-year old might be in the market for a new gym for his next fight. The 16-5 fighter has long trained at Tiger Muay Thai and Archangel Michael Fight Club. He’s also worked out of AMERICAN TOP TEAM in Coconut Creek, Florida. Right now he’s riding a three-fight slump; granted all via decisions, and is 1-4 in his last five. So there’s definite turbulent times right now.
So, as of right now; he’s perfect for the pickings. Despite what you think of him, he is skilled. And tenacious. It’s just he has gotten into his own head right now. That’s why once Henry Cejudo had to pull out of his upcoming UFC 292 fight with Marlon Vera, “Chito” jumped on the call out of the Russian.
Normally that fight would be a pick ’em. Cory Sandhagen just cooled Vera off a bit. Although, two of his four wins recently were coming off of older and slower versions of Frankie Edgar and Dominick Cruz. With all the top bantamweights booked, there’s little picking for Vera to choose from. Vera’s better on the ground than Yan, but Yan’s kicking game would absolutely be a factor. However, it would be smarter for Yan not to tangle with Vera right now.
Will Petr Yan Pull Off A Move… And Where Could It Be
Man-for-man the best MMA Gym is ATT. The force of their roster is unmatched. But if a change is made there are two possible nice fitting homes. They are AKA and with TREVOR WITTMAN. With a great grappling base JAVIER MENDEZ could help round him out in a way other’s haven’t been able to. The comfort level with all the other Russians training there has to be considered too.
Say what you will about his present one-on-one training of Gaethje, Usman, and Namajunas; Wittman is like Professor X meets Yoda. Plus Yan’s solid striking would improve that much more under him. There isn’t a coach in the sport that breaks down film footage like Wittman. And there’s something else in his favor as well. The training in the Colorado mountains would increase Yan’s stamina exponentially.
If a move is made, those little tiny factors that “fans” don’t often consider, will be the deciding ones. Where would you hope he lands?
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