Bellator 224’s Olga Rubin – “I’m completely comfortable being the underdog”
Bellator women’s featherweight title challenger, the unbeaten Olga Rubin talks about her camp and shares some thoughts on the champion ahead of Bellator 224.
Currently 6-0, this will be your first world title fight. How different of a camp was this?
“Nothing different except working with such a renowned strength and conditioning coach, to keep perfecting our work together. Making sure we’re cohesive. And, making sure that wherever I am, the other coaches know exactly what I’m doing. The team is great.”
I saw that you hoped to work with Amanda Nunes for this camp. Were you able to make that happen?
“Unfortunately, not. I got the news that Amanda would be fighting on July 6th in Las Vegas. That means that the time I wanted to be in Florida, she’s not going to be available. Also, none of the other girls from that camp (America Top Team) will be available. So, we just kind of dropped that idea for the moment, but I’m definitely planning on going there, and being with these ladies.”
So, for this camp you’ve stayed at home in Israel?
“Yes, I just decided to come back (to Israel) after I finished up came in U.K., to finish the camp here and spend some time with my family.”
Were you surprised when you got offered the title fight?
“I was not surprised because my record is undefeated, and I knew Julia was looking for new contender. I was extremely excited to get the news.”
What kind of champion do you think Julia has been?
“She’s really dominant, wasn’t really active. I think that’s the only problem. I think it would be better for the division to defend as much as possible. It needs to change because there are so many good featherweights coming up the line and we all want a title fight.”
What are some important keys for you to win?
“Be on my toes and be very tight. Working my own game and try to open her up to make mistakes and catch her.”
People look at you as the underdog in this fight. What do you think about your chances?
“I’m completely comfortable being the underdog. I don’t mind being in that role. I’ve been there before, won the fight. I actually feel better going into the fight feeling like an underdog. I bring the confidence to perform, how I’m going to perform. It just makes me a little more alert or nervous about making a mistake.”
Check out the full interview with Olga Rubin at the top of the page.
