UFC welterweight Jonathan Micallef is thrilled to be competing in Australia this Saturday night, where he’s set to face Oban Elliott at UFC 325. Fighting on home soil adds an extra layer of motivation for Micallef, who has spoken openly about the energy he draws from a local crowd.
Micallef (8-1) is eager to compete on home soil, not only because it’s a major numbered UFC event in Australia, but also because he’s sharing the card with featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, a bout he believes could potentially be the champion’s final appearance.
“It’s huge for me man. First of all fighting in Australia almost three times back-to-back and then to be alongside Volk on such a big card, and potentially his retirement fight is very special for me,” Micallef told reporters on Wednesday.
“I think it’s a fine line you got to walk. You don’t want to come in too calm and too relaxed, but at the same time, you don’t want to be over energetic. I just find myself in between those two worlds.”
Micallef said he’s studied Elliott closely and respects the tools his opponent brings into the fight. Still, he remains confident that his own skill set gives him the edge when the cage door closes.
“I think he’s a very well-rounded mixed martial artist. He’s a good fighter on the back foot, he’s got good boxing, but overall I think I can beat him in all areas,” he said.
“I’ve just got to showcase that.”
Watch the entire media day scrum with Jonathan Micallef above. He faces Oban Elliot at UFC 325 on Saturday night.
