Tallison Teixeira is gearing up for a pivotal fight against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC Macau. Although he is not desperate for a title shot, he recognizes that a victory could significantly change his trajectory in the heavyweight division. Teixeira has expressed his interest in fighting another Russian competitor, specifically targeting Alexander Volkov for a potential matchup if he secures a win against Pavlovich.
The Background of Teixeira’s Journey
Teixeira, known as “Xicao,” started his UFC journey on a high note, finishing Justin Tafa in just 35 seconds in July 2025. However, a setback followed when he lost to Derrick Lewis in the same timeframe. He then bounced back with a win over Tai Tuivasa, bringing him to this crucial fight against Pavlovich.
Assessing Pavlovich’s Threat
Teixeira acknowledges Pavlovich as a formidable opponent. Initially, he was confident in his ability to win against Pavlovich, but he now approaches the fight with a more grounded perspective. “He’s still a dangerous guy,” Teixeira remarked, noting that Pavlovich has shifted tactics in his recent fights. Pavlovich has recently seen success through decision victories after experiencing back-to-back losses to Tom Aspinall and Alexander Volkov.
Strategic Training and Preparation
Teixeira has trained extensively for this matchup. He has tailored his game plan to counter Pavlovich’s unpredictable fighting style, preparing for a range of possibilities, from an aggressive onslaught to a more tactical approach. “I see myself getting a finish,” he stated, indicating his focus on slowly damaging Pavlovich throughout the fight.
The Stakes of Victory
Should Teixeira win against Pavlovich, he believes he could find himself in the top five of the heavyweight rankings. However, he remains realistic about his title aspirations, stating he would prefer to take on one or two more opponents before entering the title conversation. Among these potential foes, he specifically mentioned Volkov, whom he believes would be a more favorable matchup.
Volkov as a Future Opponent
Teixeira views fighting Volkov as a logical next step. “Two Russians in a row? That would be funny,” he quipped. Volkov has had a strong performance overall, with victories in six of his past seven bouts, the only loss coming by split decision. Teixeira feels confident that a fight against Volkov would suit his fighting style, potentially making it easier for him to strategize and close the distance.
Training Regimen and Lessons Learned
Teixeira’s preparations have included training with notable fighters like Alex Pereira and Glover Teixeira. He has focused on sharpening his striking and grappling skills. He appreciates the unique insights Glover shares, emphasizing that each training session provides valuable lessons. “The most dangerous fight is always the next one,” Teixeira noted, prioritizing constant evolution in his fighting approach.
Addressing Past Performance
Teixeira has also reflected on his performance against Tai Tuivasa, suggesting that adrenaline may have played a role in his fatigue during the fight. He acknowledged the various pressures he faced, including competing in an opponent’s hometown and the weight of expectations. Despite the challenges, he feels ready to refine his strategy and improve in areas identified during his last bout.
With the heavyweight landscape continuously shifting, Teixeira remains focused on the immediate challenge ahead. A victory over Pavlovich could set the stage for a promising return to top contention, with a potential showdown against Alexander Volkov as an exciting prospect on the horizon.
