Fresh off what many viewed as a major upset, Austin Russell is eager to replicate that success on Friday evening.
The Regina, Sask. native Russell (2-0) goes head-to-head with Gio Platon (2-1) in the BFL 70 co-main event. This bantamweight showdown takes place at the BMO Theatre Centre in Vancouver, B.C.
Russell, 26, carries the confidence from his previous outing at BFL 69, where he secured a first-round submission over Indroop Virk.
"I thought I performed well, though I know there's plenty more room for growth. I've already taken mental notes from that fight and identified areas I can sharpen. My pre-fight strategy wasn't to engage in grappling—I was fully prepared for his strength and solid wrestling foundation," Russell told MMA Empire. "He executed his game plan effectively and pushed the grappling early."
"I stayed disciplined, waiting for openings and countering his takedown attempts. I knew the chance would come. Once I noticed he dropped his head slightly, I slipped in the ninja choke and took it from there."
Earlier this year, Battlefield Fight League struck a deal with UFC Fight Pass, expanding viewership access to their events across a broader platform.
The UFC Fight Pass presence could mean a great deal—or very little—to certain fighters. Russell finds himself somewhere in the middle.
"It's an incredible opportunity to compete on UFC Fight Pass, and I understand how significant it is," Russell explained. "But ultimately, I don't let it disrupt my focus—it's still just a fight."
"The crowds and the build-up don't enter the cage with me. It comes down to me and my opponent. The moment that cage door shuts, everything else fades away. That's when I lock in and stay fully present."
The BFL 70 co-main event features bantamweights, while the main card showcases a bantamweight championship bout.
Russell expressed interest in capturing the belt as quickly as possible, but noted he hasn't received word on whether this bout serves as a title eliminator.
"I haven't heard anything from BFL or my coaches about that yet," Russell shared.
"We're focusing on taking each fight one at a time. If I continue putting in the work and delivering results, I trust the title shot will come sooner rather than later."
Before his first career loss, Platon had been on a streak of finishes, a pattern stretching back into his amateur days.
Russell showed clear respect for his upcoming opponent when discussing Platon's fighting tendencies.
"He immediately attacks from the opening bell. That's been his hallmark, and we saw it during his title bout against Serhiy (Sidey)," Russell noted. "I'm fully aware of his approach."
"My coach and I are preparing the right way to handle it, but his striking stands out as a major concern. His last several fights have showcased real power. I respect that threat and I'm staying sharp, but I'm confident I'll walk away with the decision."
Keep up with Russell on social media: INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK
