- Josh Emmett is set to become a top-five fighter after a win over Calvin Kattar
- The 37-year-old is now confident about becoming the next UFC featherweight title contender
Josh Emmett managed to outpoint No. 4 featherweight Calvin Katter in their five-round battle at UFC Austin this past weekend. The win did not only improve the UFC veteran’s streak but also boosted his confidence as he breaks into the top five.
The best there is?
From the first to the final round, Emmett relied heavily on his standup game, having landed a flurry of big rights and combinations. This got two judges giving him the nod as he beat Kattar via split decision, (48-47, 47-48, 48-47).
By SD, @JoshEmmettUFC seals the deal after 5️⃣! #UFCAustin pic.twitter.com/LHHJC2QjAl
— UFC (@ufc) June 19, 2022
Indeed, it was an undeniably impressive performance considering Emmett was taking on the No. 4 145-pounder in the world. Addressing what’s next for him at his press conference, the 37-year-old did not shy away from stating that he is certain he’s the best featherweight there is and he’s ready for the title as well.
“I want that shot,” Emmett pointed out. “I said the No. 2 and 3 guys, they’re phenomenal fighters. They’ve fought the top guys, Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski. We need some new blood in the division. I know I can compete with them. I’m the best featherweight on this planet, and I’m ready.”
What’s the closest thing to reality
Despite being unbeaten for five consecutive fights, Emmett is unlikely to get a crack at the UFC gold right away. As things stand, the current champion Alexander Volkov is set for his trilogy bout with Max Holloway which means that the next challenger might depend on who the winner would want it to be.
No. 2 featherweight Brian Ortega, meanwhile, will be taking on the No. 3, Yair Rodriguez with the winner likely to edge closer to title contention as well.
All told, Emmett would have to wait and see how things will shape up in the featherweight division or accept a possible challenge coming from a non-top five guy in the division.
