The New Face Of The Light Heavyweight Division

Fast-rising light heavyweight prospect Aleksandar Rakic continued his winning ways at the UFC 259 pay-per-view (PPV) event last weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada, capturing a unanimous decision victory over former title contender Thiago Santos.

“We know Thiago is a striker, so we said okay, let’s strike with this guy, and let’s dominate him,” Rakic told reporters at the UFC 259 post-fight press conference (via MMA Junkie). “Basically, I like to dominate guys where they are the strongest. I was dominant and I’m happy about my performance.”

Rakic, 29, improved to 14-2 with his decision win over “Marreta” and now stands at 6-1 under the UFC banner. Already ranked No. 4 at 205 pounds, “Rocket” is expected to launch himself into the Top 3 after outlasting the Brazilian bruiser.

“I told (Dana) that I am the new face of the light heavyweight division,” Rakic continued. “I am young, I am hungry, I fight well. I have a good record, and I am representing the sport the best way. I’m a good guy. Let’s see what the UFC decides.”

With division champion Jan Blachowicz expected to face Glover Teixeira at some point later this summer, the promotion may look at booking Rakic against the winner of Dominick Reyes vs. Jiri Prochazka, who collide in the “Fight Night” main event on May 1.