The Next Generation - Vol 4

In this piece, I highlight three promising fighters on their journey to potential UFC stardom, giving them well-deserved recognition before they reach the big stage. Each fighter is introduced with a brief background, followed by their responses to three key questions—offering insight into their mindset, expectations, and what fans can look forward to in their careers.

Brayan Aspegren (Middleweight, Finland)

Aspegren by default is a middleweight to watch for due to his undefeated 4-0 record. This is particularly notable given his less remarkable amateur career, where he held a 6-5 record and often alternated between wins and losses. As an IMMAF veteran, Aspegren competed at light-heavyweight as an amateur, a division where his 5'11" frame left him undersized. However, since transitioning to the professional ranks, Aspegren has taken his career more seriously, moving down to middleweight and embarking on a winning streak that highlights his potential. Now, he's determined to make his mark as a rising talent in the division.

What can fans expect if they’ve never watched you fight?
"I promise a fast-paced and technical fight where I combine aggression with smart strategy. I don’t step into the cage to back down – I’m always looking for a victory in a way that excites the crowd."

What makes you different from any other fighter who steps into the cage?
"I have a unique mix of skill, heart, and determination. I don’t just fight – I analyze, adapt, and force my opponents to play my game. I’m not afraid to take risks, and I always strive to stay one step ahead."

What legacy do you want to leave in the sport?
"I want to be remembered as a fighter who never backed down from a challenge, who gave everything, and who inspired the next generation to believe in themselves. It’s not just about winning – it’s about how you win and the impact you leave behind."

Jacinta Austin (Strawweight, Australia)

Austin is one of the most underrated WMMA prospects, boasting an impressive resume of activity, tough opponents, and high-level promotions. She recently won titles in Eternal MMA and UAE Warriors, after a 2-1 run in Oktagon, where she fought for a championship. With an 8-2 record, including five wins over solid competition, and a diverse background in boxing, K1, BJJ, and MMA, Austin has proven she belongs in major promotions like the UFC.

For the fans that's never watched you what would you tell them to expect?
"To expect violence and war from every fight."

What makes you different than any other fighter that steps into the cage?
"I think my ability to adapt to different styles is what sets me apart from other fighters I come up against."

What legacy do you wanna leave in the sport when it's all said and done?
"I just want to be able to have a positive impact on other people. If my journey one day helps someone younger believe in themselves and commit to bettering themselves, then I will be happy."

Marcos Degli (Flyweight, Brazil)

Degli is one of the top flyweight prospects in the world. He recently claimed the LFA interim flyweight title and is riding an impressive 10-fight win streak, remaining undefeated for the past three years. His only recent loss came against current UFC fighter Felipe Dos Santos, highlighting the level of competition he’s faced. While his record includes some lesser opponents, wins over fighters like Lincon Santos, Alisson Murilo, and Hugo Paiva demonstrate his ability to compete at a higher level. Degli has all the tools to succeed in the UFC and could potentially break into the top 15 in the future.

For fans who have never watched you fight, what should they expect?
"They should expect a highly trained fighter, hungry for victory and fully committed to defending a dream. I step into the cage to finish fights in the most brutal way possible, so they can expect a show!"

What makes you different from any other fighter who steps into the cage?
"I have knockout power and sharp jiu-jitsu—I AM A COMPLETE FIGHTER! I bring a lot of uncertainty to my opponents because of my versatility and my ability to always prepare a special surprise for each fight. I’m explosive when I need to be and ice-cold when I want to be. I know how to control my emotions very well, which always keeps me one step ahead. I’ve already faced every type of challenge MMA has to offer—strikers and grapplers who I’ve knocked out or submitted, leaving them with no game against me. Everything I’ve been through has made me who I am today: The Problem of the Division."

What legacy do you want to leave in the sport when it’s all said and done?
"I’m not just going to enter the UFC as the first Jordanense (born in the city of Campos do Jordao) fighter in the organization, I’m going to become the 56.7 kg champion and then challenge the 61 kg champion, making history as a double champ in the biggest organization in the world!"