Representing the Central Coast, Jamie Mullarkey is ready to put on a show this weekend against undefeated prospect Francisco Prado at UFC 284.
Prado will be a stern test for the Aussie this Sunday as the Argentinian will be coming with the self-belief to make a statement in his UFC debut. Mullarkey understands the threat that’s in front of him because he was once in his position when he fought Alexander Volkanovski on the local scene for a championship belt.
“I remember that feeling when I was 9-0 when I fought Alex Volkanovski, and I ran into a brick wall there. I’d say this weekend will be similar. He’s super dangerous. The dangerous thing about someone who hasn’t lost a fight is that they got the self-belief that every single fight is going to go that way. It can be dangerous for me, but also dangerous for him. So, I’m just gonna look to show the levels and show that he’s not quite ready for my backyard,” Mullarkey said.
Nonetheless, the Aussie is ready to show his skillset and prove that he is a top up-and-coming contender in the lightweight division.
Mullarkey and other fighters from the oceanic region have been setting an example for the rest of the world that you don’t need to train overseas to make it big in the UFC. It’s just hard work and determination that will get you there, Mullarkey claims.
“It’s unreal to be representing my hometown. It just shows that what you put in the gym and what you’re willing to do, the sacrifices you’re willing to make and how persistent you’re willing to be, that’s what gets you there. That’s what I’ve done my whole career, I’ve just stuck at it, and yeah, it feels good,” Mullarkey continued.