Li Jingliang is on the cusp of becoming a global star
If Li “The Leech” Jingliang is victorious over future hall of famer Tony Ferguson at UFC 279 next Saturday, he deserves to headline a card in his home country of China.
Described by commentator Jon Anik as “China’s best” of men’s MMA, Jingliang is making his case to be recognized as one of the world’s best. In his last two victories, he has halted the momentum of Santiago Ponzinibbio’s seven-fight win streak and Muslim Salikhov’s five-fight win streak with devastating knockouts.
“The Leech” is known for thriving under pressure. Under the UFC banner, he is undefeated with three knockouts in China and is always in entertaining fights. The last time the energetic fighter fought at home, he won the hearts of many when he was brought to tears as his family embraced him in the octagon.
Additionally, Jingliang has been a company man by taking on challenges that many avoid: Khamzat Chimaev last October at UFC 267. He has also taken multiple short-notice fights, including this one with Ferguson. Through his translator on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, he stated that he plans to stay in the United States until early next year, so he can be available for frequent fights.
Jingliang (19-7 MMA, 11-5 UFC) has quietly punched his way into being tied for the second most knockouts in UFC welterweight history, with eight. His last four victories have come via knockout, all of which have earned Performance of the Night bonuses.
For someone that has been a star in China for years, the world will be roaring “The Leech’s” name if he defeats Ferguson in his opportunity as the co-main event of a massive pay-per-view.
(Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Anik Subramanian is an aspiring MMA journalist based in the United States. He discovered his passion for MMA when the sport was the first to return to live action during the pandemic. He is also a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and has been a lifelong sports fan.
