Brazilian fighter who impressed in debut predicts when he will become UFC heavyweight champion.

Montanha promotes UFC event. Photo: Getty Images/Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC

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José Montanha simply shone in his UFC Vegas 120 debut . At the event held last Saturday (8), the Brazilian did not feel the pressure of stepping into the octagon for the first time and overwhelmed Louie Sutherland . The athlete needed just over a minute to finish the Englishman and, as could not be otherwise, showed himself excited about his future in the organization.

In an interview with the UFC, Montanha stated that it's only a matter of time before he becomes the heavyweight champion (up to 120,2 kg) and even set a deadline. It's true that the traditional division has Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane as the undisputed and interim champions, respectively, and top fighters like Alex Poatan , Valter Walker , and others. Nevertheless, the athlete assures that he already sees himself in a position to look at the top of the traditional division on equal footing, even though he's currently outside the top 15.

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“I feel good. I didn’t let the pressure of my debut get to me, I didn’t let the negative comments bother me. I’m very happy with the work of my team, with the people who believed in me. I trained a lot, because heavyweights want to finish the fight at any moment. I was ready for any scenario. I can do it now. I believe that in two or three years I’ll have the belt,” said the fighter.

Watch Montanha's submission at UFC Vegas 120

DEBUT WON IN UNDER TWO MINUTES ‼️

Jose Montanha wins by RNC in his first UFC fight!

[ #UFCVegas120 | LIVE on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/QhqeMEtEPc

— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) August 8, 2026

Mountain Fighters in MMA

José Luiz Montanha, 29, is a promising MMA fighter and competes in the heavyweight division. The Brazilian began his career in the sport in 2016 and debuted in the UFC in 2026. In the sport, he has built a record of seven wins, six by stoppage (five by submission and one by knockout), and one loss.

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