Las Vegas — Coming off a win over Kevin Christian and entering his third fight of 2026, Junior Tafa returns to action at UFC Vegas 118 this Saturday.
The former heavyweight is now firmly established at 205lbs, especially after securing his first victory in the weight class. Now, he’s set to take on Iwo Baraniewski, an undefeated Polish Judoka who has never left the opening round.
“He’s a great fighter, good fighter. He’s a Very entertaining fighter. He’s right down my alley, the type of style, fighting, he comes with,” Tafa (7-5) told media outlets including Cageside Press in Las Vegas on Wednesday. “But let’s see if he comes with that style this weekend. I’ll meet him right in the center if he does.”
Baraniewski suggested earlier in the day that he may have to rely on his grappling in the bout. Not exactly music to Tafa’s ears. “F*ck man. I want the bonus, man. I want the bonus. I believe this happens every time. I train with the best strikers, they tend to grapple. It is what it is. I’ll meet him there also.”
“If he wants to be the bull, I’ll meet him right in the middle. If he wants to grapple, we can grapple. I’ll hit him with a flying triangle.”
Tafa is hoping that with a win this weekend, he can make a short turnaround and join the McGregor vs. Holloway 2 card during International Fight Week. In fact, he’s looking for a busy year overall.
“I heard the record is six fights in one year, four UFC fighters [have that],” noted Tafa. “If I can get seven, man, I’m happy.”
Watch the full UFC Vegas 118 media day appearance by Junior Tafa above.