Alex Poatan celebrates his title win alongside Glover Teixeira . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Glover Teixeira was impressed with Kevin Vallejos ' performance at UFC Vegas 114. The Argentinian needed only one round to knock out veteran Josh Emmett , securing a place in the top 10 of the featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg). The dominant performance caught the attention of the former champion, who even compared him to his pupil and two-time UFC champion, Alex Poatan.
During an appearance on the 'Overdogs Brasil' podcast, Glover Teixeira highlighted Vallejos' evolution and maturity inside the octagon. According to the former champion, the young fighter demonstrated strength, control, and an unusual calmness for his age, characteristics that position him as a potential future champion of the organization.
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“The kid is very good, very strong, Emmett fought Topuria and did better (than against Vallejos)… This kid controlled the fight with a calmness that reminded me of Poatan. He approached very calmly, at a good distance, relaxed, very experienced. The kid has a great chance of becoming champion,” said Glover Teixeira.
Glover also pointed out that Vallejos could quickly become a relevant name in the division, even entering discussions for big fights. For the veteran, a possible rematch against Jean Silva emerges as a natural duel, with the potential to even headline a UFC event.
“He’s going to be a tough fight. I don’t know why they’re not talking about it, but I think they’re going to start talking about a rematch with Jean Silva … It’s a fight everyone wants to see. That’s the main event of Fight Night. It’s a promising fight, both of them fighting for a title shot,” concluded the former champion.
Jean Silva has already beaten Kevin Vallejos.
Jean Silva and Kevin Vallejo are enjoying a good run in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/Montage SUPER LUTAS
Despite his current winning streak of four consecutive victories in the UFC octagon, Kevin Vallejos had to postpone his UFC debut. The Argentinian faced Jean Silva in the 2023 Contender Series and was defeated by the Brazilian via unanimous decision.
Despite the setback, Vallejos managed to bounce back. After stringing together two victories, he received another opportunity in the Contender Series and, this time, secured his contract with the UFC.
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