Is this the fight that catapults Mario Bautista into the UFC elite?
Mario Bautista enters the Octagon against Jose Aldo at UFC 307 with a hunger that rivals the legend’s own. A nine-month hiatus, punctuated by meticulous preparation, has brought him back to the stage of his dreams. Bautista knows he’ll face a relentless onslaught from Aldo, particularly through those famous leg kicks. But, Bautista is determined to neutralize them with speed and agility.
“Just being very mindful and going with people in practice who throw a lot of leg kicks and get them to throw even more,” Bautista explained during training, his eyes laser-focused. “Just working it into my routine, my shadow boxing, my sparring, mentally and visually just getting ready for it. We are on top of it… I have to keep a high pace. I know I have the gas tank and that will be a big thing in this fight. I’m going to make him fight.”
His approach is a blend of calculated strategy and explosive aggression. Bautista aims for constant movement, relentless pressure, and an unrelenting tempo. He believes this tactic will wear down Aldo’s famed endurance, leaving him vulnerable to his own power. “It is going to be a high-paced fight,” Bautista emphasized. “If we can get a finish that would be nice, but I’ve never lost a decision so if it goes to that, I see myself winning.”
A win against Aldo at UFC 307 holds tremendous significance for Bautista. This victory could propel him into the top ten of the rankings and pave the way for a lucrative clash with a top-five contender, securing his place in the elite echelon of fighters. The prospect of this rise to prominence motivates him to deliver a knockout performance at UFC 307. “Hopefully it gives me his spot,” Bautista declared, his gaze burning with conviction. “But, it gets me in the top 10 and ready for a top-five opponent. It will bring more eyes, more attention, and add value to me. That will prepare me for the top five.”
If Bautista can overcome Aldo’s legend, he’ll be on a trajectory towards greatness.