LAS VEGAS – Andre Petroski knows what he’s getting himself into fighting Michel Pereira on short notice at UFC Fight Night 230.
After Marc-Andre Barriault withdrew from Saturday’s middleweight bout with Pereira (27-11 MMA, 6-2 UFC), which takes place at the UFC Apex and streams on ESPN+, Petroski (10-1 MMA, 5-0 UFC) stepped in on just 10 days’ notice and took the challenge.
Petroski admits his initial reaction to being offered the replacement opportunity was to decline. He had already scheduled a grappling competition at the ADCC trails, he said, but upon deeper consideration, saw the upside in taking on a fan-favorite in Pereira.
Besides the name value, Petroski also sees a favorable matchup that he can still win despite a condensed preparation window.
“I would say it’s pretty typical striker vs. grappler fight,” Petroski told MMA Junkie and other reporters at Wednesday’s UFC Fight Night 230 media day. “I think my striking has come a long way and we’re going to see that, especially on Saturday. I love the matchup, obviously. I would’ve loved the matchup on a full camp, obviously, more. But I took it on 10 days’ notice for a reason.”
With five consecutive wins to begin his promotional tenure, Petroski hopes beating Pereira under these circumstances will offer more recognizable fights. He has repeatedly called for a matchup with decorated wrestler Bo Nickal, and he reiterated he would sign a contract for that one any time.
“I continue to want to prove that I’m the best grappler in this division,” Petroski said. “I think I do that. I continue to go out and prove it. Bo seems to think so, too, so let’s figure it out.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 230.
