Brazilian giant, Xicão, has his UFC debut scheduled for February

In mid-September, Tallison Teixeira won a much-desired Ultimate contract after shining on the 'Contender Series'. Three months after his knockout victory over Arthur Lopes, which earned him praise from Dana White, the Brazilian heavyweight already knows the details of his debut in the most famous octagon in the world. 'Xicão', as he is popularly known, will face Justin Tafa on the UFC 312 card, scheduled for February 8th, in Sydney, Australia.

The confrontation was announced by Ultimate through its social networks (see below or click here) this week. Undefeated in professional MMA with a 7-0 record, Xicão arrives more than prepared for his UFC debut. And it's no wonder, since in addition to his impeccable record so far, the only 25-year-old Brazilian has a 100% fatality rate – with six victories via knockout and one by submission so far.

“Keep it in your diary. February 8th is show night in Australia. Next victim! No mercy!”, projected the Brazilian heavyweight of more than 2 meters tall, through his Instagram account.

Experience difference

Tallison's debut can be welcomed, as the Brazilian was selected to compete on a numbered card in his first appearance in the league. On the other hand, the high expectations surrounding the giant from São Paulo also meant that the UFC's top brass had already selected him against a rival who was considerably more experienced in the sport. An Ultimate athlete since 2019, Justin Tafa has competed in the company on nine occasions. Therefore, his trajectory in the league chaired by Dana White alone already exceeds Xicão's experience in mixed martial arts as a whole.