LAS VEGAS – Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos is eager to celebrate his 10th year as a UFC fights with a big win over Chidi Njokuani’s in Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 254 co-headliner.
After making his promotional debut in May 2015, dos Santos (25-8-1 MMA, 11-4-1 UFC) has put together a solid tenure inside the octagon. He said he is as motivated as ever, and is locked in to take out Njokuani (24-10 MMA, 4-3 UFC) in the welterweight matchup at UFC Apex (ESPN+).
He’s a striker, he’s a banger like me and he enjoys to fight,” dos Santos told MMA Junkie and other reporters through an interpreter at Wednesday’s UFC Fight Night 254 media day. “But I see a lot of good opportunities. He’s also a black belt so if it goes that way, we’re good, too.
“I was really happy (with this matchup). A good opponent makes for a good fight. I’m very excited for this fight.”
At 38, dos Santos is one of the elder statement among the current roster at 170 pounds. He is also among the most experienced, and said that has allowed him to refine his training to sure peak preparation.
“It’s been one of the best camps ever,” dos Santos said. “No injuries. I’m very well physically, I’m very well mentally. It’s been awesome.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 254.
