Colombia has historically had little representation in the UFC and there are currently no Colombian fighters in the promotion. Javier Reis wants to change that.
The rising featherweight dreams of making it to the first MMA promotion on the planet, and now in the best moment of his 10-year professional MMA career, Reyes (18-3) doesn’t see himself being too far away from that.
“I think I’m one fight away, or maybe the next fight will be in the UFC,” Reyes told MMA Junkie in Spanish. “I don’t think it will take long and I hope it won’t because I’m already 30 years old and this career isn’t infinite. I hope it’s soon because I’m at my best.”
Reyes is coming off a TKO victory over Dana White’s Contender Series alum Chase Gibson in the co-main event of LFA 184 last Friday. The win improved Reyes’ winning streak to eight in a row with seven finishes. Before fighting in the LFA, Reyes competed under the Combate Global banner.
“Blair” feels ready to break into the big leagues.
“Yes, I really feel ready,” Reyes said. “That’s why I was nervous for this last fight with Chase Gibson, since he fought on the Contender Series and came close to joining the UFC and had a good run, so I was a little nervous.
“However, as soon as the fight started I felt like I had everything I needed to finish the fight, even sooner. I’m at UFC level. When I’m in Phoenix, I train with the UFC guys and I feel like I’m on their level, so it’s just a matter of taking advantage of the opportunity.”
Javier Reyes is now on an 8-fight winning streak following his TKO victory in the co-main event of last night’s LFA card. He is 18-3.
One of the best fighters in Colombia today and wants to join the UFC. pic.twitter.com/MA7CY6wGey
-Danny Segura (@dannyseguratv) May 18, 2024
In addition to building a better life and a legacy, Reyes, who lives and trains in Bogotá, Colombia, wants to see his country’s flag more represented in the octagon. It would be a dream come true to be one of the few Colombians who has ever fought in the UFC.
“I’m more than ready to rock and make history,” Reyes said. “And it’s not just about hiring a Colombian, I’m sure if you hire me, you’ll be conquering half the country too. I have a lot of followers and I want to show this Colombian power. I was born and educated in Colombia and I’m ready.”
