I respect Rob Font's abilities, says Kyler Phillips ahead of UFC Vegas 99 [Exclusive]

Kyler Phillips looks ready for his upcoming fight

Las Vegas is set to host an electrifying UFC Fight Night at the Apex, with the highly anticipated co-main event featuring Rob Font and rising star Kyler Phillips. With Phillips coming off a unanimous decision victory over Pedro Munhoz, he steps into the Octagon on a three-fight winning streak. 

For Font, this battle represents a pivotal moment to snap his recent two-fight skid and remind fans of his elite status. 

Ahead of this exciting UFC clash, Kyler Phillips shared his thoughts on the journey that brought him to this point in an exclusive interview with KhelNow.

Kyler Phillips on fighting Rob Font:

Kyler Phillips expressed his excitement for the matchup, emphasizing the hard work that led him to this moment.

He said, “I’m very excited because I’ve worked so hard to get where I’m at in my career and in my life, and it’s just cool to be a part of this journey and now get to see my hard work pay off and get in the moment and go fight this guy.”

This fight is one of the biggest opportunities of Phillips’ career, and he is fully embracing the moment.

Phillips on his father’s role in his MMA Journey

Kyler’s father has played a monumental role in shaping his career. Starting as early as age 3, Phillips was introduced to combat sports, thanks to his dad’s unwavering support.

Reflecting on his father’s influence, Phillips shared:  “I just think it’s really cool that he gave a huge part of his life to helping me, just living with me and spending time with me, being there for me. I don’t know where I’d be or what I’d be doing if I didn’t have a father figure in my life. So, yeah, I’m grateful.”

How MMA has changed his life?

Starting from a young age, Kyler Phillips has been entrenched in the world of martial arts, and it’s shaped his life in profound ways.

From jujitsu and Muay Thai to becoming a state judo champion, his journey through various disciplines has molded him into a dynamic fighter.

He explained how MMA constantly pushes him to grow. “With MMA, there’s so much room for growth, improvement, and rebuilding yourself every day because there are so many different forms. Competing in all these different arts has shown that there’s always something to learn, a new skill to sharpen. MMA allows me to create my own style, unique to my ability.”

What did he learn from his fight with Raulian Paiva?

In 2021, Kyler Phillips went to war with Raulian Paiva in a Fight of the Night performance but came up short on the judges’ scorecards. However, the loss became a learning experience for him.

“From that fight, I definitely learned. I looked at what we did and realized that the habits you create in training lead to certain outcomes. I just wanted to transform myself, and that experience became a superpower for me, giving me the mindset to see what I need to do to win.”

Also Read: UFC Fight Night Pereira vs Hernandez: Fight card, date, time, telecast, live streaming info & more

Phillips spoke on his recent fight and evolving fighting style

Despite his past success with submissions, Phillips’ last two fights in 2024 have gone to decision. When asked if his style has evolved.

Kyler Phillips explained, “Yes, my style changes. Your style is like your mind and your body, and it evolves every day. You can make it stronger and sharper or more focused in different areas. Every day is an opportunity to grow the style.”

The rising level of competition in MMA

As the sport of MMA continues to evolve, so does the caliber of competition. Phillips acknowledges the growing complexity of the fight game.

He said,  “The sport has grown tremendously, especially since COVID. There are more eyes on it, and people are learning new methods of winning faster. But at the end of the day, it’s you versus you. I think it’s better to dominate rather than just compete, focusing on making yourself better every single day.”

What does he have to say about Rob Font?

Phillips holds his opponent Rob Font in high regard and is looking forward to the challenge ahead he said,  “I think he’s a great fighter. I’ve watched him fight for a while, and I respect his abilities. It’s an honor to share the Octagon with him. Let’s get this fight.”

Kyler Phillips sends a message to his fans in India

Before wrapping up the interview, Kyler sent a heartfelt message to his fans in India. He said, “Love and respect. Thank you guys in India for all the love and support you show for the sport. Let’s go.”

Watch UFC Fight Night – Hernandez vs Pereira LIVE on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD (Tamil & Telugu) on October 20, 2024 from 1:30 AM. Sony Sports Network is the official broadcaster of UFC in India.

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