The conclusion of the UFC Rio preliminary bouts brought a surprising announcement. On Saturday evening, the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro hosted twelve thrilling fights. The main event featured former UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira, competing in his home country, against Poland`s Mateusz Gamrot.
The prominent preliminary featherweight bout saw Michael Aswell face Lucas Almeida, with Almeida appearing to compete despite a hand injury. Aswell secured a quick TKO victory over Almeida in under two minutes at UFC Rio. In his post-fight interview, he inadvertently revealed details about an upcoming championship bout involving his teammate.
Michael Aswell Confirms: Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja Set for UFC 323
A Texas native, Aswell trains at the 4oz. Fight Club in Houston, alongside the #1 UFC flyweight contender, Joshua Van.
Following his decisive win over Brandon Royval at UFC 317 in June, Van had a face-off with reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja, which many interpreted as a precursor to their upcoming title clash.
When questioned about his next steps after defeating Almeida, Aswell voiced his desire to compete at UFC 323 in Las Vegas on December 5th. This event marks the UFC`s final pay-per-view before their massive $7.7 billion rights deal with Paramount takes effect, and it`s where, according to him, his friend`s fight is scheduled to happen.
“I just saw the announcement: December 6th, Las Vegas. My best friend, Joshua Van, is fighting,” Aswell revealed in his post-fight interview. “I would absolutely love to be on that same card. He`s challenging Pantoja for the championship belt. If we can get on that card, it would be fantastic. I`m in great shape, fully prepared. Let`s go, folks! 4oz. Fight Club is in the game. Houston, Texas, stand up!”
As of now, the UFC has not yet made an official announcement regarding the Pantoja vs. Van fight for UFC 323.
Michael Aswell Comments on Opponent`s Hand Injury at UFC Rio
Lucas Almeida`s fractured hand was a prominent topic of discussion at the official UFC Rio weigh-ins on Friday.
Aswell offered his perspective on Almeida`s pre-fight injury.
“I immediately sensed something was off,” Aswell remarked, recalling Almeida`s gaze during their face-off (as reported by MMA Fighting). “My direct messages on Twitter and Instagram were practically overflowing. I certainly saw that picture… My sole focus is to concentrate purely on my own performance,” Aswell concluded.
