Arnold Allen Believes He Deserves to be in the UFC Now

Speaking to reporters in a post-fight media scrum (via MMAjunkie) after UFC Fight Night 84, Arnold Allen discussed his win over Yaotzin Meza. Below are some highlights from the scrum.

Allen on deserving to be in the UFC: I know I deserve to be here now – I’m 2-0; it’s not a fluke, like people said last time: ‘He got lucky.’ I dominated three rounds and nearly got the finish near the end. I was a bit disappointed I didn’t get the finish – too little, too late. One of my coaches told me to go get that bonus, but too late.”

Allen on feeling like he had a more mature performance: “I feel like I was more mature, I was relaxed. I did swing a few crazy shots, but I’m still 22. By the time I’m 22 1/2, I might not swing those crazy shots. I’m more relaxed. I’m using my brain in there, I’m not just reacting on instinct. I’m making things happen. I’m reading it. I’m watching it. It’s like it’s in slow motion today.”

Allen on working on his game: “I’ve been at Tristar, and I’m not at that level yet. I’ve got a long way to go. I believe in myself, I think my coaches believe in me, so that’s the plan. I’m 22 – if I’m 30 years old, I could still be improving, so we’ll see.”