EXCLUSIVE | Dustin Jacoby Glad With “Back Against the Wall” Victory Over Kennedy Nzechukwu At UFC Nashville

UFC light heavyweight Dustin Jacoby says he is glad with his win over Kennedy Nzechukwu while his “back was against the wall”.

Both literally and figuratively, Jacoby’s back was against the wall during his fight with Nzechukwu. The 35-year-old came into the fight off the back of two close decision losses and finished the fight with a right hand to ‘African Savage’s’ chin while he was backed up against the cage.

He said: “I got another fight on there [his contract] and then we’ll [him and the UFC] talk after that one. We’re getting close to that time and, like I said, I’m in a really good spot, man.

The former GLORY kickboxer is now 7-2-1 in the UFC, leaving himself with one fight left of his current deal. In an exclusive interview with Combat Sports UK, Jacoby discussed his current contract situation.

“I’m thankful, I’m blessed, and I’m glad I was able to go out there and capitalise on such a big opportunity when my back was against the wall a little bit.”

Jacoby on His Expectations of Nzechukwu Ahead of the Fight

The Nigerian was the form-fighter going into the bout with Jacoby in Nashville. He had won three in a row, all by finish, and closed as the betting favourite on fight night.

However, this didn’t phase the ‘Contender Series’ alumni as he revealed in the interview. He stuck to his game plan and got the finish.

He said: “First and foremost, I saw him at weigh-ins. I’m like ‘Alright, I feel good sizing up against him’, and when we got in the octagon he seemed much bigger and that was my first thought.

“He did a good job of owning the centre and he came at me, I didn’t have much room to breathe, man.

“The fight started quick and he put the pressure on me right away and I knew I just had to play it safe and use my range, use my punches to keep him away – and then catch him with the counter, which is what I did very nicely.”