Bair Shtepin Hopes To Earn BRAVE CF World Title Shot With Win Over Brad Katona
Bair Shtepin feels like he has paid his dues on the global stage of mixed martial arts and believes an impressive win in his next assignment should earn him a shot at the vacant BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Championship.
The Kazakhstan-born Russian will face off against Canadian phenom Brad “Superman” Katona on the supporting card of BRAVE CF 53 in Almaty, Kazakhstan on August 21st, and he will be aiming to convince the promotion’s matchmakers that he is ready for gold.
“For me, it’s a big fight. This fight will bring me closer to the title. He’s an experienced and strong fighter. If I defeat my opponent, I will rise in the world rankings. I hope they’ll give me a title fight afterwards,” Shtepin said.
Katona, who first emerged in the mainstream consciousness of the North American audience through a renowned reality television program focusing on up-and-coming stars of the sport, is no slouch as he holds an outstanding 9-2 professional record with four victories coming by way of finish.
“Superman” left a lasting impression in his promotional debut at BRAVE CF 50 this past April, submitting Borislav Nikolic in the third round with a guillotine choke.
Though Bair Shtepin acknowledges the unique capabilities of Katona, he feels that his speed will set him in good stead for the battle ahead.
“I am faster than him. My speed will be my advantage over him come fight night. I don’t think he will be able to handle that,” he stated.
