Brendan Allen has established himself as the top contender in the middleweight division after a strong performance on Saturday. Allen’s commanding victory came by way of a submission win over Paul Craig, during the main event at UFC Fight Night 232. From the outset of the match, he dominated Craig, maintaining nearly eight minutes of control time within two rounds. This led to his stunning submission victory in the third round. This fight has added to Allen’s impressive streak, with six wins in a row, five by rear-naked chokes.
After his win, Allen expressed his desire for a title eliminator in his Octagon interview. He confidently put forward the names of top contenders Robert Whittaker, Jared Cannonier, and Khamzat Chimeav whom he would be willing to face off against. The dominant middleweight contender is eager to face any competition. He says, “I think I deserve it; I’ve earned it. I’ve beat everyone they put in front of me, I finished them. I’m the No. 1 contender. I’m the best in the world, I’m here to prove it. If you say otherwise, come show me, don’t tell me.”
Allen reiterated his statements at the post-fight press conference. The confidence in his voice showed that he doesn’t have preference for any specific opponent. Despite his love for fighting, Allen made it clear that his family remains his top priority. The fighter also revealed his future plans, stating that he intends to retire from professional fighting by the age of 35 to dedicate all his time to his family. He explained, “This is just a means to an end,” he said. “I know what I want, I know what my final vision is for my life and their life. If everything plays out right, by 35 I’m gone. I’ll go ahead and say it now, you all can put it on the record — I’ll walk out of here with a loss and I’ll never look back whatsoever.”