The UFC 163 fight between Jose Aldo and Anthony Pettis was canceled due to a knee injury to Pettis. In his place for the Aug. 3 main event enters Chan Sung Jung. The “Korean Zombie,” as he is known, will have the chance to fight for the UFC featherweight title.
In a conversation with GRACIEMAG.com, André Pederneiras, manager to Aldo, said the change brought no major problems in the preparation of their champion. Pederneiras explained that a clash between Aldo and an athlete coming from the same weight is more fair. Check out the best excerpts:
GRACIEMAG.com: Was there much of a need to change the training plans with the exchange of opponent?
André Pederneiras: There was no need to change much. We were working the standup and the ground for the fight with Pettis, and against Chan Sung Jung that’s not going to change. As much as the Korean is a finisher, he is also very good standing, so we are preparing to work in all areas.
Does the change of Pettis for “Korean Zombie” make defending the belt easier?
I think it has less appeal, but Chan is a great athlete. I think this fight makes sense for Aldo. … This is the vision of this UFC and the fight we accept.
It is better to face a fighter from the featherweight division in your opinion?
I think justice was done. José Aldo will now face an athlete of the same weight class that has been moving his way up the division. I think it’s fair.
