Charles Jourdain says he’s getting the “king” treatment during his third UFC fight week – and it’s making him uncomfortable.
Three days prior to UFC on ESPN 10, Jourdain (10-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC) told media Thursday on a pre-fight video call that being spoiled isn’t his thing.
“I always wanted to fight in Vegas,” Jourdain told MMA Junkie. “It’s a dream coming true. Of course, the circumstances make it a little less special, to be honest – but I love it. The way the UFC is treating us, I almost feel uncomfortable. I feel treated (like) a king. For me, I always see me as a conquerer – not as a king, yet.”
While rising up the regional ranks, Jourdain watched Andre Fili’s journey through the UFC featherweight division. On Saturday night, he’ll be fighting Fili (20-7 MMA, 8-6 UFC), which he expects to be a surreal experience.
“YouTube has been one of my greatest teachers,” Jourdain said. “Watching those guys from Team Alpha Male: Urijah Faber, T.J. Dillashaw, Cody Garbrandt – all those guys I’ve been always been a fan of their team and the way they do things. I haven’t seen him yet personally, but it’s going to be weird. … Yeah, it’s going to be special.”
UFC on ESPN 10 has been the subject of criticism online for its lack of big-name stars. A card filled with mostly fresh faces and unranked competitors doesn’t mean the entertainment value will be absent, Jourdain said.
“Sometimes people expect these type of cards to be boring, but sometimes you see diamonds in the rough,” Jourdain said. “I think I’m one of those, and it’s a great opportunity to prove my worth. Yeah, straight up, no matter how big or how small the card is, I’m just ready to prove to the world who I am.”
UFC on ESPN 10 takes place Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The card airs on ESPN and streams on ESPN+.
