In a feature published ahead of UFC Saudi Arabia, bantamweight prospect Xiao Long described himself as "a savage" and vowed to show a more dangerous version of his game after recovering from a significant leg injury that delayed his Road To UFC finals appearance. The article details how the injury, suffered after his August semifinal, postponed his tournament final and kept him out of action for months. Xiao explains that the layoff allowed him to refine his skills and mindset, and he is eager to prove he belongs on the big stage in Saudi Arabia. The piece underscores his determination to represent China in the UFC’s expanding presence in the Middle East.
Chinese bantamweight Xiao Long issued a bold warning to his Road To UFC Finals opponent ahead of UFC Saudi Arabia, declaring himself "a savage" and promising a more dangerous version of his fighting style when he finally steps onto the big stage.
The 28-year-old prospect carries a record of 27 wins and 11 losses into the tournament final, a bout that was significantly delayed after he suffered a serious leg injury following his semifinal victory in August. The setback kept him sidelined for months, pushing back what would have been a swift march to the conclusion of the Road To UFC tournament. Standing five-foot-eight with a 70-inch reach, Long fights out of an orthodox stance and has demonstrated active offensive output, landing 5.25 significant strikes per minute at 46 percent accuracy. His grappling game leans toward takedowns rather than submissions, averaging 0.69 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Long has spoken openly about how the extended layoff changed his approach, suggesting the time away from competition allowed him to sharpen both his technical skills and his mental edge. Rather than viewing the injury as a setback, he framed it as an opportunity to evolve, and he arrives in Saudi Arabia motivated to demonstrate that growth.
Why it matters
- A Road To UFC tournament win typically earns the victor an official UFC contract, making the stakes significant for Long's career.
- His improved form after months of recovery could make him a more complete fighter than opponents have previously faced.
- Long's appearance is part of the UFC's continued effort to build its brand in the Middle East while also elevating Chinese talent on the global stage.
- At 27-11, he brings considerable experience into what is effectively a debut on one of the promotion's marquee international cards.
