For Xavier Alaoui, the moment to step onto MMA's biggest platform is approaching—and he's ready for it.
Before that opportunity arrives, though, Canada's Alaoui (11-3) has to survive a test against Cameroon's Jaures Dea (7-2) in their matchup at UAE Warriors 14. The bout, taking place Friday night in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, will crown a new bantamweight champion.
Earlier this year, Alaoui agreed to take on Youssef Zalal during a card on UFC's Fight Island back in September, but the matchup never materialized. Now 29, Alaoui feels confident that his UFC opportunity is just around the corner.
"They'll reach out eventually," Alaoui told MMA Empire in a recent interview. "It might happen fast, or it could be a few months down the road, or maybe even a year or two from now. But it's coming."
"I prefer not to dwell on what comes next. I know when I'm ready to step back in the cage, but I try not to get caught up in hypotheticals. Right now, my focus is on finishing this opponent."
Even with a solid resume and 14 bouts logged, this marks the first title shot of Alaoui's pro career.
He's spent considerable time imagining what it would feel like to hoist the belt after this fight, emphasizing how meaningful it would be to return home to Canada with it.
"I don't let pressure weigh on me, but I absolutely crave this title," Alaoui admitted. "I want it more than I want a PS5, and honestly, I really do want that console too."
"I picture myself strapping it around my waist and having it sitting beside me on the flight back home. I see that scene in my head every single day."
Alaoui built for championship rounds
While he's comfortable fighting through all three scheduled rounds—having done it eight times as a pro—this represents his first experience preparing for a full five-round, 25-minute championship contest.
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