LOS ANGELES – Diana Avsaragova doesn’t seem to be afraid to look down the road.
The unbeaten Bellator women’s flyweight contender has what arguably is her toughest test yet Saturday in California. Avsaragova (5-0 MMA, 3-0 BMMA) takes on former title challenger Alejandra Lara (9-6 MMA, 3-5 BMMA) on the Bellator 290 prelims.
“The goal for me has always been to fight tough opponents, and Lara is a great fighter despite her losing streak,” Avsaragova said at Thursday’s media day. “She’s the toughest fighter I’ve faced on paper. In terms of fighting for the title, I think I’ll be ready in two or three more fights.”
Lara and Avsaragova are going in different directions lately. Avsaragova has yet to lose. But starting with her title loss to former champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane, Lara is on a skid of five losses in seven fights – and currently three straight decision setbacks.
Avsaragova appears intent on not letting Lara use her as a stepping stone to get back on track. And if she wins, she’s glad to keep working toward a shot at a belt with Bellator.
“I’m very satisfied with the promotion,” she said. “I’m happy with Bellator. It’s a huge, amazing organization and I’m hoping to keep fighting for them and eventually get the belt.”
Check out Avsaragova’s full media day interview above.
Bellator 290 takes place Saturday at Kia Forum in Inglewood, Calif. The main card airs on CBS following prelims on MMA Junkie.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for Bellator 290.
