Sergio Pettis Is Okay If He Has to Fight Again Before a Title Shot

– Sergio Pettis spoke with MMAjunkie ahead of his fight with Henry Cejudo at UFC 218 this weekend. Highlights are below:

On possibly not getting the next title shot: “I’m 24 years old, I’m getting better and better, and if they want me to fight again before a title, I’m good with that. I’m building my resume, getting some money on top of it and getting some experience. T.J. vs. DJ, that’s an interesting fight, even for me. I’m a fan of the sport. It’s entertainment and it makes sense. It’s part of the business. I have no hatred towards that. I understand it. If they want me to build my resume and get to that DJ shot, I will. If I have a great performance against Henry Cejudo, maybe I can get there.”

He has a gargantuan task ahead at UFC 218, though, because outside “Mighty Mouse,” Cejudo is as good as it gets in the flyweight division. Cejudo said his power will be the difference in the fight, and brings that confidence following a knockout of Wilson Reis at UFC 215 in September. Pettis, however, said he’s not buying it.

On Cejudo saying his power will make the difference in their fight: “Most of his wins are by decision, besides his last fight. Wilson was there to get hit by that power. I’ve got five inches of reach on this guy. I’ve got movement. He doesn’t have that power there. He’s going to fall onto my sword and he’s going to fall into my striking.”

On wanting a knockout win: “I want to get a knockout on my belt. First win by not decision. Whatever happens, happens. I’m going to go out there and push the pace. I believe my style is different now. I’m not longer a little boy. I’m a grown man. My style is going to make him come in and think he has the power. I’m going to hit him with something hard and he’s not going to expect it. If not, I’m going to pick that face away all night.”