EFC 120: Luke Michael not fazed by jiu-jitsu king Zaakir Badat

Michael was crowned winner of his division back in August and made it clear then that he was ready for a different challenge.

READ: No AFCON, no World Cup for SA U17 boys after going down to Zambia

‘Young Gun’ faces an opponent considered the jiu-jitsu king tonight, but believes he too is more than capable to deliver a knockout blow.

''You know after winning the middleweight belt in August, I haven't stopped working. I have got my eyes firmly set on this goal. I said when I win, I will fight for the welterweight title. I am strong enough to fight for middleweight but I will be my best version at welterweight. I have worked for it all my life, since I was a kid. I got my purple belt in 2013, I will show it on 12 December,'' said Michael. 

The decision to take on Badat means Michael is aiming to follow in the footsteps of some the EFC greats in attaining the double champion status.

Asked what he thought of his challenger, Badat applauded Michael for being ambitious in gunning for the welterweight division.

''All respect and fair play to him. Everyone inspires to have double gold, something has been idolised. I understand why he wants to go for double gold,'' said Badat.

Badat said he expected a fight that will showcase the strength of mixed martial arts.

''I think we forget, like I said the last time - this is mixed martial arts, it's not wrestling. How you are to get the synergy between the arts, to bring it together to mix martial arts stage is the most important thing,'' added Badat.