Las Vegas, NV — UFC Vegas 62 sees Misha Cirkunov return to the light heavyweight division, after a stint at middleweight did not go according to plan.
Cirkunov (15-8) has dropped three straight fights, including two at 185lbs. He addressed the move Wednesday at the UFC Vegas 62 media day, speaking to outlets including Cageside Press.
“185, I know I can make it, it’s just I didn’t have enough energy there. When I was getting in certain positions, I couldn’t implement certain of my strengths, and I felt like I didn’t have enough strength in me,” Cirkunov explained. “That was due to massive weight cuts. This time, I feel like I have energy and I’m actually going to put energy into implementing those positions and looking to finish.”
The move back to 205 will most likely be a permanent one. “I just think it’s a little bit too much of a cut. It’s one thing to make the weight, but it’s another thing to perform at the highest stage at that weight,” said Cirkunov. “It was not for me. But I had to try it, because otherwise I would never know.”
Cirkunov saw some change-ups in scheduling ahead of Saturday’s fight, but that’s the sort of thing he takes in stride. “It’s only for sure when they close the cage behind us. I knew they were going to find a replacement.”
As for his thoughts on opponent Alonzo Menifield, he’s well aware of the power threat.
“He’s a tough guy, strong, throws heavy strikes. He has very heavy overhand punches; he also will take you down, kind of implement his power and his will on you. He’s a tough opponent, he’s the real deal.”
Misha Cirkunov faces Alonzo Menifield on the main card of UFC Vegas 62 this Saturday, October 15, 2022 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
