MELBOURNE, Australia – Justin Tafa is all fired up and ready to put on a show at UFC 243.
The hard-hitting Aussie is all set to make his octagon debut on the main card at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night (Sunday locally) as he takes on Dana White’s Contender Series graduate Yorgan De Castro (5-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
And the protege of “The Super Samoan,” Mark Hunt, plans on reproducing one of his mentor’s show-stealing walk-off knockouts as he aims to make a splash in the UFC’s heavyweight division.
Chatting to UFC commentator Jon Anik after working out for the fans at Federation Square, Tafa (3-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) said he was ready to make his debut, despite the shock early call-up after just three pro fights.
“I planned it for maybe next year, but I was in Bali having some beers and the UFC called, so I was like, ‘Why not, bro?’
“The weight’s all good, man. I’m ready. I think it’s going to be a good fight. I hope he comes down and shows his manner inside the octagon, and I’ll show mine.”
The power-punching former rugby player promised the fans that he’s in the mood to deliver a big KO for the Melbourne crowd on his UFC debut.
“Man, I’m pumped, man,” he grinned. “I’m ready to put on a show and ready to put this guy to sleep.”
