Dustin Jacoby is feeling a bit disappointed with the circumstances surrounding his upcoming return to the octagon.
Having secured a knockout victory that earned him a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus in front of a packed arena in Tampa, Fla., last December, Jacoby is now set to face newcomer Bruno Lopes at UFC on ESPN 68 on May 31 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
This matchup doesn’t sit too well with Jacoby for various reasons.
“When they initially presented this matchup, there was uncertainty about the location,” Jacoby shared with MMA Junkie Radio. “While they thought it would be in Las Vegas, the venue being the Apex was not confirmed. Despite my reservations about facing Bruno Lopes, who boasts a 14-1 record and is an emerging talent, I accepted the challenge. I may not have been thrilled about the matchup or its implications in the division, but I’ve always been one to accept what the UFC offers. I never shy away from a fight.”
“Upon learning that the fight would take place at the Apex, I was admittedly disappointed. However, I must focus on what I can control and deliver when the time comes,” Jacoby added.
Jacoby has garnered three UFC Performance of the Night bonuses and achieved five knockouts in his UFC career. His recent fights have been in arenas with enthusiastic crowds, a streak he had hoped to continue after his impressive performance in Tampa.
“It’s a bit disheartening, to be honest. The energy from the crowd in Nashville during my fight with Nzechukwu and the electrifying knockout in Tampa are moments I cherish. The roar of the crowd adds an extra layer of excitement to the fight. While I had anticipated another thrilling arena experience, the reality is different with the limited crowd at the Apex. It’s challenging to generate the same level of excitement, but I understand the need for focus and determination regardless of the setting. The crowd’s reaction in Tampa is a highlight of my career, and those are the moments we strive for,” Jacoby expressed.