Every mixed martial artist harbors a desire to step into the spotlight of the UFC, and Justin Basra shares that same ambition.
"Anyone who claims the UFC isn't their ultimate goal is being dishonest," Basra remarked during an interview.
"For MMA fighters, the UFC carries the same prestige as the NHL does for hockey players."
While the UFC remains his primary objective, Basra has also weighed his age when considering his trajectory in the sport.
At 30, Basra acknowledges that his age might influence where his career leads, though his ultimate priority is testing himself against top-tier opponents.
"I simply want to measure myself against the best; I want to compete at a high level," Basra explained.
"Whether that means Bellator, One FC, or something else, I'm open to it. But the UFC remains my dream."
Currently holding a 4-0 record, Basra believes a handful of additional victories could catch the attention of larger organizations.
He has two fights planned to finish 2018: Rumble in the Cage 59 in September, followed by Unified MMA 35 in November.
If Basra secures victories in both months and adds one or two more at the start of 2019, he feels he could earn a shot at the big stage. There's also a particular matchup he'd love to make happen.
"I had originally lined up a fight with Brad Katona at XFFC 16 at the end of 2017, and I'd love to face him in the UFC if it works out," Basra shared.
"Back when we were set to fight, people weren't talking about any other matchups besides ours. It would be a huge fight for Canadian MMA, and I still believe we owe each other that bout."
Immediate Challenge
Before Basra can focus on future possibilities, he needs to overcome Joaquin Calderon at Rumble in the Cage 59.
Calderon enters the cage at 4-4, and Basra anticipates a tough contest, noting that a win would significantly boost his resume.
"He's a tough competitor who shows up ready to fight," Basra noted.
"He's securing late-round finishes and earning decision wins, which suggests he can go the distance for a full three rounds."
A triumph over Calderon on Sept. 29 would give Basra his fifth career victory and extend his streak to nine straight, including his perfect 4-0 amateur record.
Each victory reinforces Basra's elite wrestling foundation and his rapid development across other aspects of MMA, despite having dedicated himself to the sport full-time for only three years.
Before pursuing MMA, Basra competed at a high level in wrestling, working his way toward Olympic qualification. However, shortly before he transitioned to MMA, his weight class was dropped from the Olympic program, redirecting him toward mixed martial arts.
"I understand how to compete, and I thrive in competitive environments—that drive pushed me toward MMA," Basra explained.
"Once I learned my weight class had been removed from the Olympics, I saw MMA as a way to return to the competitive arena."
