Having completed his UFC debut, Malcolm Gordon is now focused on landing his first octagon victory.
Canada's Gordon (12-4) steps into the cage against China's Su Mudaerji (12-4) for a flyweight showdown at UFC on ESPN 18 in Las Vegas, NV on Saturday night.
The 30-year-old Gordon shared that overcoming his UFC debut and now returning to fight on North American soil has boosted his confidence ahead of Saturday's showdown with Mudaerji.
"Abu Dhabi was an adjustment in itself," Gordon told MMA Empire. "You're fighting at 3 a.m., sleeping through the day, and waking up at 9 p.m. That was a mind f**k in itself."
"Now being in Vegas, we arrived early to train so our bodies could adjust to any air differences. We've handled that, and my lungs are in great shape. I also believe I'll have home-court advantage on this opponent. He's traveling all the way from China, so who knows what that does to your body."
Gordon's UFC debut in July did not unfold as hoped, as he fell to Amir Albazi via first-round submission during a short-notice bantamweight contest.
Even after the defeat, Gordon insisted he experienced none of the typical pre-fight nerves, crediting the empty arena setting.
"It felt like a gym spar with cameras rolling, that's all," Gordon noted.
"Obviously everyone is extremely tough and the competition level is far higher, but as for nerves, I didn't experience any. You're facing opponents in front of maybe 10 people."
Gordon Anticipates Ground Dominance
Gordon has established himself as a dangerous grappler throughout his career, securing six of his 12 victories by submission.
With all four of Mudaerji's defeats coming by way of submission, Gordon believes he holds a clear edge once the action reaches the mat.
"Other than my solitary setback on UFC debut, I've been highly effective on the ground recently," Gordon explained.
"With a proper training camp behind me, I don't see why I won't continue to be dominant on the mat."
Taking their records together, Gordon and Mudaerji boast 21 finishes between them entering Saturday night's card. They've also recorded just three decision victories combined.
Given the finishing ability both fighters carry, Gordon predicts a thrilling matchup for spectators.
"I've never been part of a dull fight in my career," Gordon stated. "Whether I'm the one getting finished or my opponent, that's typically how things play out."
"We're not talking about decisions here. I'm certainly not saying we're playing it safe. This fight won't be cautious in any way. We're not aiming for three rounds."
Shoutouts
"I owe a major thank-you to Michael Imperato. He's been instrumental in my recent preparation. It's unfortunate what unfolded for him from just one poorly chosen phrase, preventing his entry into the UFC. There are individuals who've said and done far worse without facing similar consequences. He's a solid guy, and he's absolutely not racist—otherwise he wouldn't be in my corner." Connect with Gordon on social media: FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM
