OKTAGON’s Akonne Wanliss’ (7-2 MMA, 1-0-1 OKTAGON MMA) confidence is at an all-time high entering Saturday’s lightweight tilt against Sahil Siraj (9-2 MMA) at OKTAGON 54 in the opening round of the Tipsport Gamechanger.

Wanliss sat with BJPenn.com ahead of his fight with Siraj to get a greater glimpse into his dedication to MMA. When he got the call, the Jamaican-born Wanliss did not pass up the opportunity to participate in the tournament.

“I was super excited because after my last fight was a no contest, and I was using that to showcase my skills to get into the Gamechanger,” Akonne Wanliss said. “As you say, I’m very young in my career, and there are a lot of fighters in there who have had like 15 fights, nearly 20, 20-plus fights, and I’m just on my 10th fight. So, to get this opportunity, go there to show my level and that I’m the best lightweight in Europe. It’s got me watering at the mouth. It’s a great opportunity, and it’s super, super excited about it.”

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Wainliss wouldn’t give an exact prediction for the fight but will adapt to Sahill however he sees fit.

“Well, I’ll take the fight wherever it goes,” Akonne Wanliss said. “I’m a full mixed martial artist. I’ve got skills and finishes on the top and the bottom, so if he wants to take it down to the ground or if I want to take it down to the ground, I will be able to finish him down there. He stays on the feet. I’d be able to finish in there too. I’m a 100% finisher and look to keep that streak going this Saturday.”

Regardless of the outcome, Wanliss expects an exciting fight for the fans in the Czech Republic.

“The force is strong. I’m looking nice and lean right now,” Wanliss said. “I’m just cooking up a storm.”

Will Akonne Wanliss reign supreme on Saturday at OKTAGON 54?