Frankie Saenz Only Picking The Best Fighters For His Opponents

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Frankie Saenz (11-4 MMA, 3-2 UFC) spoke about his history of tough opponents, including fights with Eddie Wineland and Urijah Faber. His next fight is against Augusto Mendes (5-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) at UFC Fight Night 103. It happens at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix. The main card airs on FOX Sports 1 after preliminary fights on UFC Fight Pass. Here are highlights:

On facing tough opposition: “I’m always picking the best guys. The best guy who I can fight, that’s who I want to fight next. I’m fighting Augusto on this card – they offered me the fight, and I wanted to fight here. I’m 36 years old. I’m here to test myself and I want to fight the best guys in the world. I feel like if I’m going to go out, I might as well go out fighting the best guys.”

On Mendes’ ability: “I know he’s a tough guy, comes from a tough gym, and I’m not shy of going against a tough opponent. It’s going to be an exciting fight. He’s been training with The (MMA) Lab, and The Lab’s an elite team. They have great coaches, a bunch of great training partners, and I’m sure he’s working on everything. So I’ve got to expect the best Augusto Mendes on Sunday.”

On fighting in his hometown: “I’m back home, and I’ve always wanted to come back here and fight in front of my home fans. I’m just happy to be here, and enjoying the moment and soaking it all in right now.”