Loughnane also remembers fighting in front of fans who blew cigarette smoke into the cage, competing moments before a riot and flying to Australia on 24 hours’ notice for a fight.

He describes his career as a “roller coaster” and will reach a new peak if he beats 29-year-old Khizriev.

Due to the PFL tournament format, Loughnane has already fought and won three times this year to set up the showdown with Khizriev.

“It’s not like you can win the belt and defend it. You have to win four fights in one go to win another tournament,” he adds.

“I think it’s been underestimated what I’m about to do here.”

For his fellow fighters, Loughnane’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, with UFC legend Randy Couture describing him as “one of the greatest of his generation”.

For the Mancunian, that’s what matters most.

“It’s incredible, motivating and very humbling coming from people like Randy Couture,” admits Loughnane.

“And look, that kind of thing, getting the respect of your peers, is worth a lot more to me than a belt or money.

“These people, who I’ve looked up to throughout my career, who look at my martial arts and appreciate my version of what they do? It’s incredible.”