“The training intensity has become a lot higher, we train with Sean all the time, we train with a lot of guys at Xtreme,” Shahbazyan said. “It’s just them pushing me harder, training on how I fight, basically.”
He also mentioned a “smarter” approach to camp, paying particular attention to how often he pushes his limits without burning out by the time the fight arrives.
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Keeping your cool and managing your gas tank will be crucial against Dobson, a courageous fighter with a good grappling foundation. Shahbazyan was originally scheduled to fight Dusko Todorovic, but an injury forced him to change. Dobson earned his contract via Dana White’s Contender Series in 2021 as an undefeated fighter, and after dropping his first two UFC fights, he bounced back with a right decision victory over Tafon Nchukwi in August 2023.
“I think he’s a good fighter,” Shahbazyan said. “He’s talented, he’s strong, but I feel like I have experience and my skills are a lot better.”
