*This content was translated by AI.
'Korean Superboy' Choi Du-ho (35) is set for a decisive bout to re-enter the UFC rankings after eight years.
Choi Du-ho will face 15th-ranked featherweight Patricio Pitbull (39, Brazil) at 'UFC 331', held on the 20th (Korean time) at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, USA. This matchup was arranged after Choi directly named Pitbull as his next opponent immediately following his victory over Daniel SanToss (Brazil) last May.
Choi Du-ho, who has maintained an undefeated record of three wins and one draw since his return in 2023, will re-enter the Top 15 for the first time in eight years and two months if he wins this fight — breaking the longest gap among current UFC roster members to return to the rankings.
Opponent Pitbull is a legendary fighter who dominated both featherweight and lightweight divisions at Bellator, successfully defending his title nine times. Since joining the UFC in 2025, he has recorded one win and two losses.
According to the UFC, Choi Du-ho stated, "There are many advantages to defeating a legend like Pitbull, and to climb higher, I must defeat fighters with strong reputations," explaining why he wanted this matchup. He added, "I have never experienced a decision in the UFC before. I believe Pitbull won't be able to last until a decision," showcasing his characteristic confidence in finishing fights. Choi Du-ho and Pitbull's finish rates stand at 88% and 65%, respectively.
Choi Du-ho, now in his mid-30s, said, "I am preparing for every fight as if it were my last. I have trained harder than ever before." He continued, "It is an honor to represent the nation like a national team athlete. I will deliver an impressive performance in front of Korean fans in LA."
On the same day, 'Korean Zombie' Jung Chan-sung's student Yoo Ju-sang (32) will also compete on the undercard. After suffering his first loss last October, Yoo Ju-sang aims to secure two UFC victories against Michael Aswell Jr. (25, USA) in his return bout after 11 months.
Yoo Ju-sang declared, "My opponent is tough and has a strong physique, but aside from that, there's nothing better about him than me. I will pour everything I've worked hard for into this fight and secure victory."
Meanwhile, the main event of this tournament features a flyweight title rematch between Joshua Van (Myanmar/USA) and Alexandri Pantozza (Brazil). The event will be exclusively broadcast live on TVING at 8 AM (undercard) and 10 AM (main card) on the 20th.
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*This content was translated by AI.
