When it comes to heavyweight fights, the outcome can often be uncertain. However, in the highly anticipated UFC interim heavyweight title fight, Jailton Almeida has a clear favorite.
Following the cancellation of the UFC heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Micocic, scheduled for UFC 295 on November 11, the promotion arranged an interim title fight featuring Sergei Pavlovich and Tom Aspinall.
Almeida (19-2 MMA, 5-0 UFC) believes Pavlovich will emerge victorious in this bout. As the designated backup for Jones-Miocic, Pavlovich was already training for the event.
“Jon Jones’ injury presents new opportunities, and now we have Tom Aspinall vs. Pavlovich,” said Almeida through an interpreter at Wednesday’s UFC Fight Night 231 media day. “In my opinion, Tom Aspinall did not have the mindset that he was going to fight for the belt. In fact, after his last fight, he expressed his desire to face Ciryl Gane.
“Meanwhile, Pavlovich wholeheartedly believed he was destined to fight for the belt. He served as the backup and underwent extensive training. I see Pavlovich as the favorite. He is the one who underwent a full camp, while Aspinall was simply training without mentally preparing for a title fight.”
Almeida is set to return to the octagon this Saturday as he faces Derrick Lewis in the main event of UFC Fight Night 231, streaming on ESPN+ from Ginasio Do Ibirapuera in Sao Paulo.
If Almeida secures a victory over Lewis (27-11 MMA, 18-9 UFC), he believes it could earn him a championship opportunity or a title eliminator bout. Almeida also expressed disappointment about Jones’ injury, as he hopes to face him in the future.
“I do worry a little about not fulfilling my dream of fighting against Jon Jones,” Almeida said regarding Jones’ torn pectoral. “I have mentioned in interviews that my dream is to fight Jon Jones.
“However, I am also excited about the new opportunities to fight for the title. With Jon Jones out, Tom Aspinall is now fighting Sergei Pavlovich. If I defeat Derrick Lewis on Saturday, I could be next in line or they may have me fight once more. There are numerous possibilities in the division due to these circumstances.”
For more information about the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 231.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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