LAS VEGAS – Nasrat Haqparast is focused entering Saturday night.
The German-born lightweight will compete in the Las Vegas for the first time when he takes on Drew Dober at UFC 246. However, Haqparast (11-2 MMA, 3-1 UFC) isn’t letting the bright lights of such a big event deter him from the task at hand.
“It’s a great moment,” Haqparast told MMA Junkie on Tuesday. “I’ve been a big UFC fan since I was a kid. This is a dream come true, but at the same time we need to remain focused. (We can’t) get impressed by all of the things outside of the fights – but it feels good for sure.”
On the topic of Dober (21-9 MMA, 7-5 UFC), Haqparast was complimentary, yet confident. The Tristar product said he respects Dober’s striking abilities and veteran savvy. However, Haqparast considers himself a new breed of athlete.
“It’s a fun matchup,” Haqparast said. “Drew is a great striker. He’s a tough guy. He’s experienced, you know? From fight to fight, I take every opponent seriously. I just think this is the fight of my life. I need to fight until my death. I need to prepare like it’s the last day of my life. We take it very seriously, and I look forward to Saturday.”
When he envisions the fight playing out, Haqparast believes his victory will be attributed to two factors: preparation and commitment.
“The only thing I know is that I’m going to win,” Haqparast said. “I know that I train harder. I sacrifice much more. I don’t know the outcome. I don’t know how I’m going to win, but I know for sure I’m going to win. There’s only this outcome Saturday.”
UFC 246 takes place Saturday at T-Mobile Arena. The main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims on ESPN and early prelims on UFC Fight Pass/ESPN+.
Check out MMA Junkie’s full pre-fight interview with Haqparast in the video above.
Nasrat Haqparast: I prepared for UFC 246 'like it's the last day of my life'