Albanian MMA fighter Eduard Drenica says that Serbian Petar Jakovljevic made up the story that four people attacked him just to keep him from entering the ring.
Just four hours before the match started, Drenica was notified that everything had been canceled since Jakovjevic was in police custody, with the latter claiming on the social network "Instagram" that he had been attacked by four people.
In an interview with Telegrafi, the Albanian fighter commented on the behind-the-scenes, where he stated, among other things, that he was disappointed.
"I found out four hours before the fight, through a message from his team to the promoter. My first reaction was unimaginability and disappointment. I was ready, focused and to see everything fall apart at the last moment was very disappointing."
Drenica made all the preparations to make Kosovo proud, as for him it was more than just a fight.
"All preparations were made, I was in full form, ready to give my best. This match meant a lot to me, it wasn't just sport: I was representing Kosovo and my people. Seeing it cancelled at the last moment was a big blow, but it doesn't change my determination."
Asked about the Serb's "justification" that he was attacked, he added that it is not true because during the measurements he noticed that Jakovljevic was scared.
"Personally, I don't believe this excuse. During the measurements, I looked him in the eye and saw fear. In my opinion, he made up this story to back off without admitting he was afraid and to buy time."
"Was there politics involved? No, for me politics is irrelevant. This is sport and what happened is related to fear and pressure inside the cage, not to external factors."
Drenica certainly didn't forget to thank the fans for the great support they gave him and promised to make them proud.
"To my fans, I want to say don't worry: My determination hasn't changed. I've felt your support and it's given me even more strength. Keep believing in me, the right day will come and I'll give you the show you deserve."
Finally, he underlined that he dreams of entering the UFC to represent Kosovo at the highest level.
"My goal remains clear to grow as a fighter, enter the UFC and represent Kosovo at the highest level. Every obstacle makes me stronger and I will continue to work to achieve my goal without compromise," he concluded for Telegrafi.
Meanwhile, Drenica has played five matches so far – recording three wins and two losses.Telegraph
