Edmonton — Heavyweight Alexandr Romanov certainly took his lumps during his UFC Edmonton victory over Rodrigo Nascimento on Saturday.
The Moldovan heavyweight was seen sporting a bag of ice on one hand, and also had to endure a low blow that halted the fight for a time. Ultimately he prevailed, coming away with a unanimous decision win.
On the hand, Romanov (18-3) told media outlets including Cageside Press backstage that “I feel that something cracked in the end of the first round. Two years ago, I broke this hand, and I feel that in the same spot, something cracked. But I feel that it cannot break me. Nothing not can stop me to get on my goals.”
As for the low blow, “I think any man can understand how bad it is when 265 pound guys kick you right in the nuts,” Romanov said with a laugh.
UFC broadcasts are notorious for suggesting that fighters suffering low blows take the full five minutes of recovery time afforded. Romanov, like many, did not.
“You know, when you find your rhythm of your fight, when you find your distance, there’s no reason to take all five minutes,” explained Romanov. “Because your opponent can adapt, can recover more to. We don’t need to forget about this. That’s why when I felt much better after this shot, I decided I had to come back in the fight and win.”
On the final fight of his current UFC deal, Alexandr Romanov hopes the win over Nascimento will be enough for the promotion to re-sign him. “I hope, yes, because I feel that I’m just on the beginning of my biggest jump to the top 10.”
As for who he wants next, Romanov didn’t have a name in mind. He was, however, originally booked against Derrick Lewis at UFC Edmonton. The card was eventually shuffled, with Lewis matched up with Jhonata Diniz instead. “The Black Beast” remains of interest to “King Kong” Romanov however.
“Yes, because for me, it’s very interesting match, to fight with Derrick Lewis. This is a big name, he’s a massive strong guy, and for me it’s going to be a very big test.”
Watch the full UFC Edmonton post-fight press conference appearance by Alexandr Romanov above.
