KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghan mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Ahmad Wali Hotak, who is facing a Dagestani opponent next week, says he has undergone intense training and hopes to become the first Afghan to defeat a fighter from Dagestan. Hotak will take on his opponent, Zirakov, on June 27 in Belarus. In an exclusive interview with Pajhwok Afghan News on Saturday, Hotak said he has been training rigorously for the past two months and is optimistic about overcoming his Dagestani rival. “Dagestani fighters dominate the global MMA scene. The opponent I’m facing has trained under Khabib’s father and is part of Khabib’s team. He has fought four official matches, winning three,” he explained. Hotak acknowledged his opponent’s strong skills but said he has crafted a clear strategy. “I plan to take the advantage in boxing first, then shift to submission techniques. If neither works, my goal is to win on points,” he said. He also mentioned that he was initially overweight when selected for the bout. After intense training, he has lost 10 kilograms to meet the 70 kg weight class. Although he has been away from competition for nearly two years, Hotak emphasized that he never stopped training and has remained committed to his preparation. He stressed the importance of winning this match, noting that a victory would bring joy to the Afghan people and help advance his career in the organization. Hotak called on the public to keep him in their prayers and to continue supporting him. His fitness coach, Shaheen Qahari, said Hotak is in top condition and has worked hard on his physical, technical, and tactical performance. “I believe he will win this fight,” he added. Murtaza Stanakzai, a Kabul resident, expressed hope that Hotak would defeat his Dagestani opponent and bring pride to the nation. Another Kabul resident, Islamuddin, said he is eagerly awaiting the fight and hopes Hotak’s hard work pays off with a victory. Hotak has fought 11 professional matches, winning 10 and losing only one. He is also scheduled to compete next month in the Fight Nights organization in Russia.