ELMONT, N.Y. – [autotag]Matt Schnell[/autotag] is confident he can turn things around at UFC on ABC 3.
After going on a five-fight winning streak until mid-2019, Schnell (15-6 MMA, 5-4 UFC) has now has just one in his past four octagon appearances. It’s a rough patch that’s been aligned with injuries, fight withdrawals and the recent passing of his mother, but the narrative of his life can change with a win over Su Mudaerji (16-4 MMA, 3-1 UFC) on Saturday.
“Winning solves everything,” Schnell told MMA Junkie at Wednesday’s UFC on ABC 3 media day. “We’re one moment away from getting right back on top. That’s what’s so great about this sport. So, things have been rough. I haven’t felt like I’ve been in a groove in my winning ways, per se, but I truly believe I’m one of the best. We’ re one moment away from me throwing my hands in the air and celebrating a victory.
“Tough competitor the guy I’m fighting. This kid’s good. Really talented. And the guys that are the best bring the best out of me. I look forward to the challenge. I can’t say that I’m excited, but I look forward to challenging myself, I look forward to facing Su Mudaerji.”
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Although he’s still ranked No. 8 at flyweight according to the latest official UFC rankings, Schnell admits there’s some pressure going into the clash with Mudaerji, which takes place at UBS Arena and airs on ABC following prelims on ESPN and ESPN+.
Schnell has never gone winless over a three-fight stretch before, and he has no intention of starting now.
“My back’s against the wall in some capacity,” Schnell said. “I’ve been here before. It’s not unfamiliar territory for me. Like I said, I’l answer the call.”
How will Schnell answer the call, though? He said there’s a key element.
“Fifteen focused minutes,” Schnell said. “If I can keep my cool, if I can keep my head on straight – I can beat any man alive. I assure you.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC on ABC 3.
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