Defensive MMA Quotes

analytical angry annoyed Apologetic Aspirational brief callout challenge cocky Complaint concern confidence confident conflict criticize Defensive determined disappointment dismissive disrespect emotional evasive excited excuse frustrated funny grateful hopeful humor intimidating mockery motivational neutral opinion Pragmatic praise prediction regret relieved request respect Respectful revengeful sarcastic strategic strategy supportive surprised sympathetic trashtalk update warning
Jan 20, 2026 Defensive
Arman Tsarukyan on Islam Makhachev
“How am I afraid of Islam if I fought him on short notice at 22 [years of age]... I have been preparing for six years for that [rematch]. How can I be afraid? Even if I lose, I would show a good fight, and make money, and make my name bigger”

– via One Night with Steiny, defending himself against accusations that he "ducked" his title fight against Islam Makhachev.
— Arman Tsarukyan
Jan 17, 2026 Defensive
Khamzat Chimaev on Kamaru Usman
“I moved from Sweden to Abu Dhabi, that’s why it was harder for me to train. I didn’t have a good team around me, just some friends—that’s why that fight was difficult for me”

– via MTGYM23 (January 17, 2026), reflecting on the logistical hurdles of his 2023 majority decision win over Kamaru Usman.
— Khamzat Chimaev
Jan 15, 2026 Defensive
Sean Brady on Michael Morales
“I didn't lose to Morales because he was taller than me. I just got caught, and that's that... From Thursday until Saturday at 5 PM, I didn't even know if I had a fight. I'll leave it at that.”

– via The BradyBagz Show (January 13, 2026), breaking his silence on the behind the scenes turmoil surrounding his UFC 322 knockout loss to Michael Morales.
— Sean Brady