Chris Duncan: 'The UFC will appreciate me battering Manuel Torres'

UFC fighter Chris Duncan says he is going for the knockout when he takes on Manuel Torres in Mexico City this weekend.

The Strathyre grappler, nicknamed ‘The Problem’, has built an 11-1-0 record since turning professional in 2018 and is looking to add to that with another victory against opponent on a five-fight winning streak.

Duncan, who fights in the UFC Lightweight division, goes into Saturday’s bout on the back of four straight wins himself, and he feels he’s building momentum as well as an appetite for more success.

“It’s been a long haul but we’re here,” he told STV. “We’re in fight week, we’re in Mexico and ready to cut the weight.

“Winning is great and I enjoy it but the momentum is the thing I feel propels me forward. Getting in there more often makes it more familiar and I’m looking to have a busy year.”

Mexico is a notoriously difficult place for fighters to visit in combat sports but Duncan is confident that a baying crowd is exactly what can bring out the best in him.

“I love that hostile environment,” he said. “That gets my blood boiling.

“I’ve fought in London twice and these guys have come across to fight me in London. Theoretically, that’s my home crowd.

“You’ve got to repay the favour and I’m sure the UFC will appreciate me coming across here battering Manuel Torres and then going home.”

While his full focus is on Saturday’s opponent, Duncan is at an important stage of his career and knows that a win can not only help him with his climb up the rankings, but could mean a tangible financial reward.

“Obviously I’m chasing that knock-out finish,” he said. “It’s important, coming to the end of my contract and wanting to renew with better cash at the other end.

“So it’s important that I put this guy away in front of his home crowd.

“I’ve got to start chopping into that top 15 very soon. Give me another year and I think I will be ready for that.”