Adrian Yanez flattered by Jorge Masvidal comparison but wants to pave his own way

LAS VEGAS – It took Adrian Yanez just 39 seconds to earn a UFC contract, and he’s already drawing comparisons to one of the promotion’s biggest stars.

Yanez (11-3) made quick work of Brady Huang at Dana White’s Contender Series 28 when he hit him with a one-two combination that stumbled his opponent Tuesday night. A few pinpoint follow-up shots had Huang visibly dazed, and referee Jason Herzog decided that he’d seen enough, even though Huang was still on his feet.

With his crisp boxing, as well as his look, Yanez reminded many – including cageside commentator Paul Felder – of a young Jorge Masvidal, a comparison that he’s flattered by. Yanez is a fan of Masvidal’s style, but ultimately he wants to be remembered for his own journey.

“I’ll take it all, man,” Yanez told reporters, including MMA Junkie, after his win at the UFC Apex. “I’ll take a little ‘Street Jesus,’ I don’t mind it at all. If I get that comparison, it’s all great and lovely, but I’m here to make my own journey. This is what I want to do. I’ve worked my whole entire life for this, and I’m super happy it’s finally paying off. Big shoutout to ‘Gamebred.’ He’s actually one of my favorite fighters. He’s one of my top favorite fighters, right behind Cain Velasquez, but I love the comparison.”

He continued, “If my fighting style is getting compared to his, man, I’ll take it. That guy fights. I love the way he fights, and as you can see, I’m getting comparisons to ‘Street Jesus,’ so I’m happy with that.”

Coming out of the fight unscathed, Yanez, who was emotional after dedicating his win and contract to his late father, is ready to jump back in there right away and is even willing to step in on short notice.

“My phone is gonna be open for any time,” Yanez said. “Any time. If someone drops out this week, I’m your huckleberry. I’m here, I’m ready to go. I’m already pretty close to weight anyway so I’m ready to go.”