New York: Jim Miller is expecting an action-packed showdown against Terrance McKinney at UFC 334, and the veteran lightweight believes his opponent’s aggressive fighting style could create opportunities inside the Octagon.
Miller will face McKinney on the preliminary card Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York. The matchup features two experienced finishers with very different approaches to controlling the pace of a fight.
Speaking to MMA Junkie Radio, Miller described McKinney as a dangerous opponent who starts quickly but believes his pace can slow as the fight progresses. Miller knows he must remain focused from the opening bell.
“McKinney, he’s a tough dude,” Miller said. “He starts very fast. He’s very dangerous, but he does seem to fade a little bit, too.”
The 43-year-old veteran believes surviving McKinney’s early pressure could improve his chances of securing a victory. He also welcomed the opportunity to face an opponent who prefers aggressive exchanges rather than relying on point-fighting tactics.
“I like these fights where I know my opponent’s going to come after me and not just try to point fight,” Miller said. “I thrive in those fights and do very well.”
Miller enters the matchup with a 39-19 MMA record and 28 victories inside the UFC. His experience and finishing ability make him a challenging opponent, despite the age difference between the two lightweight fighters.
McKinney holds an 18-9 professional record and an impressive finishing record. All 18 of his career victories have come by stoppage, making his explosive opening-round approach one of the biggest challenges Miller must prepare for.
The matchup also carries an additional challenge after McKinney missed weight by nearly five pounds during Friday’s official weigh-ins. Miller will need to manage the physical threat posed by his younger opponent throughout the contest.
Miller has won four of his past six fights and remains determined to continue competing at the highest level. He has also discussed his ambition to reach 50 UFC appearances before eventually retiring from mixed martial arts.
The veteran insists he remains dangerous in the lightweight division and wants to keep delivering finishes rather than leaving his fights in the hands of the judges.
“I haven’t won a decision in nearly a decade,” Miller said. “I’m still dangerous. I’m still going after it. I’m still putting on great shows and finishing opponents.”
