It was announced earlier this week that undefeated Roufusport rising star Sergio “The Phenom” Pettis (9-0) has signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. This past weekend, “The Phenom” captured his ninth straight professional victory, propelling the 20-year old into the UFC on a wave of momentum that has fight fans excited at a level few prospects inspire. His first bout in the Octagon will be against Vaughn Lee at UFC 167 on November 16th in Las Vegas.
Regarding his momentous signing with the UFC, where Sergio’s older brother Anthony holds the lightweight title, Pettis stated, “I am very excited to be a part of the UFC family, and also to join my brother in this great organization. This means the world to me…it doesn’t even seem like this is reality. I’ve dreamt of this moment since I was 14, and now I’m here. It’s just so unreal to me.”
Many that have yet to witness the skills of “The Phenom” live have speculated on how similar his moves might be to his older brother. Sergio, however, feels there are nuanced differences.
“I’m different from my brother. I’d say I’m more technical, and don’t do as many flashy moves, but I will still finish fights just like my brother. Regardless, I’m very grateful for this opportunity, and I will not disappoint the fans on November 16th.”
When Pettis steps into the cage against Vaughn Lee, he will do so with high expectations from the fight world. “The Phenom” says he’s ready.
“Vaughn Lee is going to see me at my full potential. I have a lot to prove to the division, to the world, and to myself. When I’m at my full potential, I’m dangerous.”
Roufusport head trainer Duke Roufus has placed another of his fighters within the confines of the UFC, and is excited to see his young charge join the ranks of teammates such as his brother, Erik “New Breed” Koch, Chico “King” Camus, Dustin Ortiz, and Pascal “Panzer” Krauss.
“I’m just ecstatic that the UFC has given Sergio a chance to shine. Even though he’s only 20 years old, he’s got such a bright future ahead of him. I think he’s got a shot at being a champion just like his brother.
“This is another fantastic happening to be in the UFC with another athlete. We love getting fighters there, and it’s just awesome to have so many younger fighters competing in the promotion. It gives these guys a chance to develop under the bright lights of the UFC. We have a lot of great young fighters at Roufusport, and I look forward to seeing more of our athletes in the Octagon.”
Sergio “The Phenom” Pettis will make his Octagon debut at UFC 167 on November 16th in Las Vegas, Nevada. Headlining the card will be a welterweight title bout between champion Georges St-Pierre and challenger Johny Hendricks. The co-main event will feature a highly-anticipated light heavyweight bout between former 205-pound kingpin Rashad Evans and the always-entertaining Chael Sonnen. Also showcased on the card are Robbie Lawler, Rory MacDonald, Josh Koscheck, Tyron Woodley, and others.