Jean Matsumoto is seizing a golden opportunity as he prepares to take on top-ranked Rob Font at UFC Seattle this weekend.
The undefeated bantamweight was on his way back from training in Rio de Janeiro when his manager offered him the chance to step in on short notice to replace Dominick Cruz in the upcoming UFC 313 event. Matsumoto didn’t think twice before accepting the challenge.
“We agreed right away because it’s such a great opportunity,” Matsumoto shared. “To replace Dominick Cruz and enter the ranking in my third UFC fight, I couldn’t pass this opportunity.”
Matsumoto will face Font in a catchweight bout at 140 pounds, a weight class that was decided by the UFC. Despite being prepared to make 135 pounds, Matsumoto is grateful for the slightly easier cut.
The 25-year-old rising star is looking forward to the challenge of facing someone of Font’s caliber and sees this fight as a stepping stone to bigger opportunities in the division.
“I still have so much to evolve, but I fear no one in this division. I can fight anyone with the right adjustments,” Matsumoto expressed confidently.
Matsumoto acknowledges the differences in styles between Font and his original opponent Gutierrez but is sticking to his game plan for the fight.
“Winning this fight skips two years in my life, and then I can dream higher. I’m ready to embrace this opportunity and showcase my skills in the octagon,” Matsumoto said.
Despite the short notice, Matsumoto is confident in his abilities as a striker and is prepared to go toe-to-toe with Font in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
“I’m ready for this fight,” Matsumoto affirmed. “I’ve been training my whole life for moments like this and I’m confident that I can come out on top.”