Kevin “Chino” Vallejos, a promising MMA fighter from Mar del Plata, is set to face Giga Chikadze, currently ranked 15th in the UFC featherweight division. This highly anticipated bout will take place on December 13, marking a significant milestone in Vallejos’s career.
Vallejos’s Ambitious Challenge
At just 23 years old, Vallejos understands the importance of this fight. “This is a huge opportunity,” he stated in an interview. “For many fighters, it takes five or six bouts to face a ranked opponent, and I’m doing it in my second.” His current ranking stands at 30, but a victory could propel him into the top 15.
The Competition: Giga Chikadze
Giga Chikadze is known for his extensive kickboxing background and international experience. Standing at 1.83 meters, Chikadze boasts a significant reach advantage. Vallejos plans to focus on his striking defense and pressure tactics to overcome this challenge.
- Vallejos’s goal: To enter the top 15 featherweight fighters.
- Chikadze’s background: Former kickboxer with notable global competition experience.
- Vallejos’s strategy: Work on defense and aim to secure a knockout.
Growth of MMA in Argentina
Vallejos is not only focused on personal success; he also highlights the overall growth of MMA in Argentina. “I see many Argentines supporting me, which is incredibly uplifting. It helps the sport grow, not just for me but for many talented fighters who aren’t yet with major organizations,” he said.
The sport’s popularity is evident in Mar del Plata, where participation is increasing. “There are around 40 motivated kids per class. It’s exciting to see this growth, step by step,” he added.
A Message of Respect
In a show of sportsmanship, Vallejos expressed gratitude to Chikadze via social media, stating, “Thank you, Giga, for accepting the fight with me despite being an unranked fighter. You are a legend.”
Vallejos’s Quick Rise in UFC
Vallejos’s journey in the UFC has been meteoric. He delivered a stunning first-round knockout to South Korean fighter Seungwoo Choi in his debut, affirming his intention to stay in the sport. His professional record stands at 16 wins and just one loss.
After a setback in his debut on Dana White’s Contender Series, Vallejos bounced back with another early knockout, solidifying his position in the UFC.
As he prepares for this monumental fight against Giga Chikadze, Vallejos aims to cement his status among the elite and continue raising the profile of Mar del Plata in the world of mixed martial arts.
