Shamil Gaziev and Darko Stosic have captivated the minds of the “Brave Nation” fans before even stepping foot into the cage for their eagerly-anticipated heavyweight clash at Brave CF 69 in Belgrade, Serbia.
The pair are set to throw down at the February 18 event as the organization caps off Brave CF International Combat Week in the city, with Brave CF 69 following the conclusion of the IMMAF World Championships, which run throughout the week.
Ahead of the bout, both men have sounded off as the competitive fires have been stoked in the lead-up to their clash.
“Darko can say whatever he wants,” said Gaziev.
“During the fight, we will see who is capable of what and who is better as a fighter. I had better rivals than him. Kirill Kornilov’s striking is ten times better than Darko’s.
“I won't feel any pressure before the fight, even if he has the entire Serbian nation in his corner. This will not affect me in any way. All I can say is, Darko, get ready, dear. It will be a tough night for you.”
Gaziev has captured the African, Asian and European championships as an amateur, and has taken aim at Stosic after their bout, initially discussed as a five-round matchup, was eventually booked as a three-rounder.
“Shamil is good, but he does not have the experience I do," said Stosic.
"I will win this fight on the feet,” added the Serb, who will be fighting on home soil for the first time since 2017.
Brave CF 69 headlines the first-ever edition of the Brave International Combat Week to be held outside of the Middle East. The week-long program of events will feature the 2022 IMMAF World Championships and will conclude with Brave 69, with Gaziev and Stosic set to play a starring role.
