UFC 286 | No Easy Fights For Jai Herbert

On the prelims of UFC 286, Jai Herbert will make his sixth walk to the Octagon. The Wulfrunian striker has garnered a reputation for one reason: he takes no easy fights.

‘The Black Country Banger’ joined the UFC in 2020, giving up his Cage Warrios lightweight title to do so. He was initially set to take on fellow UK fan favourite Marc Diakese, but that bout was scratched due to COVID. He was rebooked for July of the same year, now set to fight ageless veteran Francisco Trinaldo.

The Brazilian tipped the scales at 160lbs, but Herbert proceeded with the bout, not wanting to cause any fuss. A competitive fight ultimately ended in a third-round defeat for the Team Renegade fighter. Despite this, it introduced the global audience to Herbert and his talent.

Over a year later, Herbert made his US debut at the UFC Apex. His second assignment was no easier; a main card bout with the well-respected Renato Moicano.

Once more, Herbert found himself on the wrong end of a stoppage loss, this time by submission. This win for Moicano started an unbeaten run at lightweight that led to his ranking in the top fifteen of the division.

Herbert had his back to the wall coming into his third fight. With another loss, it was all but certain that his time in the UFC would be over.

The man stood across from was Khama Worthy, a knockout artist who was also in need of a win. Herbert snatched his first promotional win with a blitzing TKO, disposing of Worthy within under a round. This affirmed Herbert’s status as a deserving and prosperous fighter that was one to watch.

A return to the UK was next on the cards. Herbert was slated to take on the surging Mike Davis, but was replaced by featherweight contender Ilia Topuria.

The Georgian had earned a standing amongst fans as a potential future champion, so Herbert was lauded for his acceptance of yet another fight against a high-level competitor. The opening round had the O2 Arena on their feet; Herbert floored Topuria with a head kick and had the fight in serious danger of being stopped.

Topuria clawed his way back into the contest and put Herbert out in the second round. The knockout loss did little to hurt Herbert’s reputation, especially considering the quality of opponent and the early success that he had.

When the next London card rolled around, there were no doubts that Wolverhampton’s finest would be fighting once again.

Next on the slate for Herbert was Canadian grappler Kyle Nelson, who had taken on the likes of Carlos Diego Ferreira and Billy Quarantillo. The bout was fought at a high pace across the full fifteen minute distance, with Herbert showcasing his takedown defense and slick boxing.

‘The Black Country Banger’ took the judges’ decisions, unanimously winning on all three cards.

This coming Saturday marks Herbert’s third straight appearance at the O2. Slovak contender L’udovit Klein will be looking to extend his win-streak to three straight, but Herbert has an opportunity to kickstart a 2023 campaign that could see him become a ranked contender.

The fight will take place on the early prelims, which are available on UFC Fight Pass.

No matter the situation, you can always expect Jai Herbert to sign the contract placed in front of him.

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Can Herbert produce another win in London? How will the fit end? Let us know in the comments!