• UFC 141

'I promise you I will be a world champion' - Pearson

ESPN staff
December 31, 2011
Ross Pearson is on the road at 145lbs © Getty Images
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England's Ross Pearson did not triumph in the manner he wanted to at UFC 141, but he still gained enough from his UFC featherweight debut to know he will one day be crowned world champion.

Pearson negotiated a nightmare opponent in his first bout at 145lbs, earning a unanimous decision against the tricky Junior Assuncao. As expected, the Brazilian was awkward and patient, forcing Pearson into errors as the Brit survived an early taking of his back.

There was little doubting the final result as Pearson grew into the contest enough to inflict increasing damage, but it wasn't the statement he had intended. Nevertheless, the Brit has seen enough of himself at the new weight class to believe he can one day claim Jose Aldo's title.

"I'm really happy with the decision to move down, I feel at home in this division. I feel really good," Pearson told MMA Fighting. "The cut's the hardest thing I've ever done. The night before the weigh-in I was doing a lot of work to make weight. But it wasn't a problem whatsoever.

"I did feel different in the Octagon. It took a round to get going. Junior's gameplan was to nullify everything I did. He avoided the fight, so it took me a round to get into the fight, he made it difficult for me.

"I really wanted to make a statement tonight, and I'm not happy because I didn't do it. But I promise you I will be a world champion.

"This is my home now and this is where I'll dominate. I want it more than anyone. Anytime, anywhere, bring it - I'm ready to go."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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