Australian MMA fighter Damien Brown has been officially added to the UFC Fight Night 101 card. Brown (16-9) will take on Guamanian fighter Jon Tuck (9-3) in front of a home crowd in what’s set to be a dynamic clash at Rod Laver Arena on November 27.
Receiving only a week’s notice before his UFC debut in March, Brown fought a competitive bout against Alan Patrick; ultimately losing a unanimous decision. With a full training camp, Brown was eager to solidify his position within the company and pulled off a spectacular knockout victory against Cesar Arzamendia at UFC 201.
With his first win in the UFC, Brown admits that it was a great achievement but has remained humble since returning home.
“It’s always nice to come back home. My wife treats me like normal and she never lets it get to my head. Obviously everyone’s been excited about it… a lot of nice compliments but that comes with winning… as long as you don’t let it get to your head”, Brown told Fight News Australia.
Training out of Integrated MMA in Brisbane, the Albury native explained that Rod Laver Arena is the closest he could come to a hometown fight. After tasting victory on the biggest stage, Brown was keen to continue momentum and thrilled to be named on the Melbourne card.
“It feels amazing. For me, most people thought a hometown fight was in Brisbane but in actual fact, I’m from Albury. Far more people will be supporting in Melbourne. “
Brown has acknowledged that this will be his greatest test since joining the promotion and recognises his opponents multi-faceted game.
“He’s obviously an accomplished grappler and BJJ black belt. He throws a lot of power punches. He then added, “this fights definitely a step up for me and I respect all my opponents, but I definitely feel like it’s a winnable fight for me”.
When asked about how the fight will play out, the 31-year-old believes he has what it takes to negate grappling of Tuck and claim victory.
“My wrestling defence mixed with my fighting will be my biggest advantage.” He then continued, “You can have all the black belts in the world, I’m not too worried”
Whilst grappling defence will be a key component in the match, its Browns aggressive and precise striking that landed him his first UFC highlight reel knockout.
“I feel like I might be able to wear him down. I’ve probably got a stronger stand up game and I have more well-rounded stand up game.”
Tuck was originally set to face fellow Australian fighter Alex Volkanovski this weekend, before the UFC card which was scheduled to take place in Manila, Philippines, was cancelled.
News of the matchup came first via The Courier Mail.
