Esteban Ribovics wants Daniel Zellhuber fight to take place later

LAS VEGAS – Esteban Ribovics respects his UFC 306 opponent, Daniel Zellhuber, but he also recognizes where they’re both headed.

Ahead of Saturday’s event at Sphere, Argentina’s Ribovics (13-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) expressed his excitement for the matchup against Mexico’s Zellhuber (15-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC).

“I think so. I think there’s buzz because he’s a great fighter,” Ribovics told MMA Junkie and other reporters at a pre-fight press conference. “I respect him a lot. Like I said before, I wish we had the opportunity to fight him later in my career. Maybe we could have a chance to develop and grow together. But yeah, it’s a big fight now. I’m ready for this fight. I think it’s going to be a crazy fight and nobody wants to miss it. Yeah, I have nothing but respect for him. He’s a great fighter, a great contender, coming out of Mexico.”

Ribovics is 28 and has three UFC fights under his belt. Zelluber is 25 and has one more to go, making four UFC fights. Ribovics will enter the Mexican Independence Day-themed event as an underdog, but he welcomes the challenge that comes with it.

“Fights are fights, man. I wish we could have fought higher,” Ribovics said. “But the opportunity has come now. I’m happy to take it. I’m happy with this fight. But yeah, I’ll just see how it goes.”

Ribovics signed a new multi-fight contract with the UFC ahead of this fight. He hopes to continue his winning ways after knocking out Terrance McKinney via head kick in May.

“I needed this win. I’m glad I did it. And yeah, you’re right. I have a new contract, a few more fights on the new contract, which gives me more stability. I can focus and train better. Things are getting better. It gives me more energy and motivation to keep moving forward.”

For more information on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s UFC 306 Event Hub.