‘I’m Not Afraid To Lose’ – MMA Phenom Dzhabir Dzhabrailov Says Mindset Is Key To His Undefeated Record
Turkish rising star Dzhabir Dzhabrailov says he has the right mindset to score an emphatic victory over Nicolas Vigna at ONE Fight Night 32 on Prime Video.
That intriguing lightweight MMA tilt will take place in U.S. primetime on Friday, June 6, live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Still just 20 years old, Dzhabrailov has been unstoppable throughout his young professional career, boasting a perfect 5-0 record with a 100 percent finishing rate that includes a pair of highlight-reel stoppages at ONE Friday Fights.
Unsurprisingly, he’s quickly captured the attention of MMA fans worldwide.
A gifted athlete and an imposing figure, the talented athlete has the physical tools needed to compete with the best, but it’s his methodical approach, killer instinct, and unwavering self-belief that have been important factors in his early success.
Dzhabrailov told onefc.com that he’s determined to continue his meteoric rise against the more experienced Vigna:
“I take every opponent seriously and go through a rigorous training camp every time. I believe the mental aspect of fighting and preparation is the most important one, and I feel strong in that area. I’m a well-balanced fighter, and I don’t think he’ll be able to surprise me in any way.”
Although he carries an unblemished slate into this bout, Dzhabrailov isn’t feeling any added pressure.
He’s quick to point out that before Vigna’s unsuccessful promotional debut against American superstar Kade Ruotolo, he too owned an undefeated record.
With that in mind, he knows the Argentine might bounce back even stronger:
“I don’t focus on my record or the zero in the defeats column. It’s just a number. A fighter’s level isn’t defined by that zero. Many fighters can benefit from losses and come back better. I’m not afraid to lose – but I also know that I want to win more than my opponent does.”
Dzhabrailov has finished all five of his professional victories but said he doesn’t fixate on securing the stoppage – and he doesn’t plan on changing his strategy at ONE Fight Night 32.
Wise beyond his years, the young competitor approaches fights tactically and emphasizes being prepared for any scenario that might unfold:
“I never focus on a knockout or any specific type of finish. I always enter the ring mentally prepared for three solid rounds. Once I’m in there, I act based on the situation while sticking to the plan. The last two fights went well for me. Of course, I’d love to win by knockout, but I’ll be ready for all three rounds.”
Dzhabrailov Aims To Seize The Moment
Heading into his hotly anticipated U.S. primetime debut, Dhabir Dzhabrailov is enjoying the increased attention and growing fan base that comes along with competing in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
He said his newfound popularity is just another piece of added motivation:
“Since my last fight, there’s been more attention. I met people who support me at this stage in my career. I got more followers on social media. More people recognize me. It’s all been a positive development.”
While new fans are nice, Dzhabrailov is primarily driven by his desire for excellence and his inner fire to win at all costs.
Above all, he believes that Nicolas Vigna simply can’t match his motivation:
“My confidence comes from how badly I want to win. I know how much I want this. My opponent doesn’t want it as much. He doesn’t need it like I do. I’m ready to knock down anyone standing in my way. I’m 100 percent prepared for this clash.”
