LAS VEGAS – Raul Rosas Jr. wants to move away from the prospect label and into contender status, and he feels he’s in prime position to achieve his next career goal.
This Saturday, Rosas Jr. (11-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC) takes on veteran contender Rob Font (22-9 MMA, 12-8 UFC) on the main card of UFC 326 (Paramount+), which takes place at T-Mobile Arena. It’s a big opportunity for Rosas Jr., as it’s the first time he takes on ranked opposition in his young MMA career.
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“Getting a top 15 opponent is what I’ve been looking for,” Rosas Jr. said at Wednesday’s media day. “I’ve been working so hard for this opportunity, and I’m ready to make the most out of it.”
Rosas Jr. sees this bout as an indicator that he’s no longer the future, but the present. He has five wins under the UFC banner, and he’s currently on a four-fight winning streak since suffering his first pro defeat.
“I expect him to come with everything because he’s trying to prove something,” Rosas Jr. said. “I’m trying to prove that I’m ready, that it’s my time, I belong here. And I know he’s trying to prove that he’s still here despite his age. We’re both saying, ‘despite our age,’ and we’re going to see what time it is, and I believe it’s my time.”
Expecting a victory proves he’s a top talent at 135 pounds, Rosas Jr. has high regard for what Font has been able to do in his fighting career. He believes this is the first of many top fights that will come his way.
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“He’s been in there, main events, through wars – so, that’s what excites me about this fight,” Rosas Jr. said, breaking down Font. ” Because, since I got into this company, I’ve been looking to test myself, so nothing more than to get started with Rob Font, because after this, I know only tough fights are going to come from here, so I’m ready to get started.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 326: Raul Rosas Jr. eager to prove he’s ready for top 15 opponents
