'Korean Superboy' Doo Ho Choi Wants Swanson Rematch After Beating Stephens

Korean featherweight Doo Ho Choi will return to the UFC Octagon for the first time in over a year on Jan. 14 when he takes Jeremy Stephens in the main event of UFC Fight Night 124 in St. Louis.

Choi has been recovering from an injury in recent months, but he’s still reflecting on his loss to Cub Swanson back at UFC 206 in Dec. 2016. Speaking today to press in Korea, Choi explained that he felt it was his stamina that let him down that night and that he’s planning to come prepared for five, five minute rounds against Stephens.

“I felt my stamina was a problem during my bout against Swanson,” Choi said. “So I’ve prepared a lot this time. Since it’s a five-round fight, I think I can show many different things.

“You’re going to have a five-round fight anyway when your ranking goes up.

With that open mind, I’ve worked hard. I’m all right with five-round fights.”

Stephens’ power is widely recognised, but Choi says he’s going to send out a reminder to the rest of the division that he’s also packing power in his hands. He also thinks he’s seen a weakness in Stephens that he’s ready to exploit.

“People say Stephens’ punch is strong, but so is mine,” Choi said. “We both haven’t suffered many knockout defeats.

“Stephens has power and experience, but he looks slow.”

Despite having a showdown with Stephens in his immediate future, Choi has one eye on settling the score with Swanson and paying him back for handing him only his second loss as a pro.

“I think I can collect a victory and a bonus,” Choi said, speaking about his fight with Stephens.