UFC MANILA: THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM

By Patrick Lujan

MANILA – Two days before the official weigh-ins, both Guam UFC fighters are concentrating on their final decline in weight and trying to stay calm before the big fights Saturday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Jon Tuck and Jon Delos Reyes arrived here Tuesday morning to get acclimated in what will be a historic night in Guam sports as the only two UFC fighters from Guam will be in the same card in Fight Night Manila.

“The last time we fought here in Manila, we were on the same card (PXC 28, Nov. 26, 2011) so this is like we’re reuniting and reintroducing ourselves to the Philippine fans,” Tuck said. “We also need to show up for all the people who are flying out from Guam. This is an opportunity and we need to make the best of it.”

Tuck knocked out Tristan Arenal in the first round of the main event in that card while Delos Reyes also delivered a first round KO that same night.

Both fighters estimate over 1000 fans coming in to support them Saturday night.

Jon Tuck and Jon Delos Reyes will make history Saturday night as both Guam UFC fighters do battle in Fight Night Manila. (photo by Patrick Lujan)

After a day of autograph sessions on Tuesday, both fighters had other mandatory meetings to attend with the UFC. As expected, the top MMA promotion in the world is doing it right for the fighters at the Solaire Hotel and Casino down the street from Mall of Asia.

“Always good,” Delos Reyes said about the UFC treatment. “Like five stars,” added Tuck.

Both fighters are within the usual 10 pounds the week of the fight to make weight. The rest will be water weight for the most part. A small challenge is the weigh-ins is slated for 7 pm Friday at the Mall of Asia.

“That allows us more time to cut, but I wish they did it earlier in the day,” Delos Reyes commented.

Tuck did his part hand-carrying some broiled chicken and “all the goodies” on his flight in a cooler.

As for the good eating, Delos Reyes plans for a Filipino feast come Sunday morning. Tuck quickly jumped in and joked, “After party at McDonald’s”.

No Stress

As for the wait and the calm before the storm, the two Jons don’t feel any pressure.

“I’m not really worried or stressed. My weight is on point and I’m just excited to get in the cage,” Tuck

“I’m pretty excited. I get to fight back out here in Manila. My friends and family are out here,” said JDR.