Aussie newcomer Jamie Mullarkey riding high after UFC cash bonus, Alex Volkanovski boost
Jamie Mullarkey walks off after his TKO win over Devonte Smith. Getty
UFC lightweight Jamie Mullarkey is expecting to make it three wins on the bounce this weekend, when he heads into the octagon for the third time in 12 months.
The Central Coast boy endured a tough start to his career in MMA's top promotion, losing twice via decision - but a pair of vicious stoppage wins in his last two outings has him flying high.
"I've actually never felt more confident, to tell you the truth," he told Wide World of Sports.
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"Everything's going to plan, everything's on point."
Mullarkey spent time recently training down in Wollongong at Alex Volkanovski's Freestyle Fighting Gym, trading hands with the featherweight champion of the world.
"It was unreal - I think it's the fourth camp we've done together and every time I just feel myself go up a level," he said.
Jamie Mullarkey walks off after his TKO win over Devonte Smith. Getty
"It doesn't get any better than the best in the world to be doing your rounds with and learning off every day.
"I'm riding that confidence into this weekend, no stone has been left unturned."
His last win against Devonte Smith saw him earn an extra $50,000 for the best performance of the night.
His next opponent, on the UFC 272 undercard, Jalin Turner is coming off three straight wins himself - but the Australian isn't concerned.
"It'll be more of the same from me in this fight. The same energy, the same pace," he said.
"We're going to push the pace on this guy and get the win."
This will be the 27-year-old's fifth fight in the UFC after an impressive career in promotions across Australia. He only lost twice on the independent circuit and one of those was against Volkanovski, who is still in the midst of a 20-fight winning streak.
More than anything, Mullarkey knows he's exactly where he needs to be.
"I'm just getting a little bit more comfortable with it each time. I know how the company works now and it just feels more like I belong here with every fight."
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