LAS VEGAS – Tai Tuivasa returns to the octagon beneath the unideal circumstances at UFC Combat Evening 239, but, he’s totally assured that he’s going to get the job achieved.
Tuivasa (15-6 MMA, 8-6 UFC) takes on Marcin Tybura (24-8 MMA, 11-7 UFC) in the principle occasion of Saturday’s card on the UFC Apex (ESPN+). He appears to snap a three-fight shedding skid and get again to his successful methods. It’s a troublesome place to be in, as a result of a fourth defeat would ship him additional down the rankings and possibly even make his standing with the promotion unsure.
However regardless of all of the optics across the struggle, Tuivasa stated he’s unaffected by the stakes.
“There’s all the time stress, nevertheless it’s no stress I haven’t seen earlier than,” Tuivasa informed reporters at Wednesday’s UFC Combat Evening 239 media day. “I’ve been right here earlier than in my life and in preventing. My preparation has been good, so I’m counting on that.”
Tuivasa, No. 7 within the newest USA TODAY Sports activities/MMA Junkie heavyweight rankings, stated he is aware of a troublesome activity is forward. Not solely because of the place he finds himself in, but additionally as a result of No. 8-ranked Tybura is likely one of the most skilled names within the division.
The Australian stated he holds Tybura in excessive regard, and on no account is taking him calmly.
“Marcin has been round for a very long time – I’ve watched him for a few years,” Tuivasa stated. “He’s very skilled. I’m not going to have the ability to convey something that he hasn’t seen earlier than. I do know his plan is to attempt to drag me by way of the rounds after which attempt to put on me down, I suppose. However that is the heavyweight division and I wish to come down and are available laborious and attempt to get this job achieved.”
For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC Combat Evening 239.
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