Santiago's UFC Debut: Chasing Pereira's Footsteps

Hector Santiago will make his highly anticipated UFC debut this Saturday in Shanghai, China, facing Lawrence Lui, the winner of the Road to UFC tournament. Santiago, a former kickboxing champion, has successfully transitioned to MMA, securing six wins in his last seven fights. He harbors a strong desire to share a fight card with his friend and former UFC champion Alex Pereira, a scenario he has experienced before in kickboxing.

Santiago began his combat sports journey in kickboxing, winning titles before transitioning to MMA around 10 years ago. His professional MMA debut was in 2024, and a recent first-round knockout at Renato Moicano's event led to his UFC call-up. He acknowledges the challenge of adapting to time differences, having fought five times in Asia previously, but feels better prepared now.

Regarding his opponent, Lawrence Lui, Santiago has studied his fighting style. While Lui has shown a grappling-heavy approach in some UFC bouts, Santiago notes his striking abilities in other fights. Santiago is confident in his preparation for both aspects of Lui's game, aiming for a knockout but prepared to go the distance if necessary.