Even with one of the best winning streaks in the heavyweight division, Curtis Blaydes is managing his expectations.
It’s hard to blame the 27-year-old contender, who gets a shot to avenge his lone professional loss when he meets Francis Ngannou in the main event of UFC Beijing on Saturday. A win would mean Blaydes is unbeaten in his last seven appearances, which would be a strong case for any fighter to get a title opportunity. However, given the drama brewing in his division, Blaydes isn’t holding his breath.
Current heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier is coming off of a dominant win over Derrick Lewis and its unclear what’s next for him.