D. Brunson (left) challenged P. Borrachinha (right) after victory in the UFC Las Vegas 22. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage
One of the most experienced names in middleweight (up to 83,9kg) in Ultimate, Derek Brunson proved that he still has a lot to prove within the organization. Executioner of Kevin holland No. UFC Las Vegas 22, the veteran challenged Paulo borrachinha after the positive result and, after the confrontation, he explained his desire to exchange forces against the Brazilian. The statement was made at the press conference after the show.
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“I asked for a name like Paulo Costa (Borrachinha). I'm cool with a rematch against Robert whittaker. I want all these guys at the top, who can leverage me. So, this is a fight I have to fight. I want a guy who elevates me so I can get a title shot and I really feel like this is the matchup for me. I need to make it happen,” said the veteran.
The last challenger for the middleweight belt, Borrachinha had a fight scheduled against the former champion, Robert whittaker, for April 17th. The Brazilian, however, ended up leaving the match after being struck by a bad cold. Knowing the condition of the miner, the UFC acted quickly and escalated Kelvin Gastelum to replace the Tupiniquim.
Ready for a new fight for the group title, Paulo is now looking for a new opponent to return to the octagon. Current number two in the ranking led by Israel adesanya, the Brazilian stated that he intends to face an athlete from the top 5, as Whittaker will perform next month.
At 37, Derek Brunson, today, ranks seventh in the category. An MMA veteran, the fighter has won four consecutive victories, the last two against promises for the future of the division (Kevin holland e Edmen shahbazyan.
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