UFC Fight Night 252's Ibo Aslan warns Ion Cutelaba about screaming at faceoff

02/19/2025 05:10 PM

SEATTLE – Ibo Aslan won’t stand for any for any of Ion Cutelaba’s antics at UFC Fight Night 252.

Cutelaba (18-9-1 MMA, 7-8-1 UFC) is known for embracing his nickname “The Hulk” in the lead up to his fights by screaming in the face of his opponents during the final staredown before sharing the octagon. Ahead of their light heavyweight bout on Saturday at Climate Pledge Arena (ESPN+), it was made clear by Aslan (14-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) that he won’t tolerate that.

“If he screams he gets my Ottoman Slap,” Aslan told MMA Junkie and other reporters at Wednesday’s UFC Fight Night 252 media day.

Aslan, 28, has gotten off to a strong start to his octagon tenure. He’s scored back-to-back knockout victories to maintain the 100 percent finishing rate he brought into the UFC, and he is eager to continue that against his most significant opponent to date.

Cutelaba, 31, has been part of the UFC’s 205-pound division since June 2016. He’s had some tough results in recent years with four losses in his past six fights, but has proven to always be dangerous inside the cage.

Aslan said he will be prepared for the clash with Cutelaba to play out in any manner. Regardless, though, he said the result will be in his favor.

“I am more hungry than him and I believe in my skills,” Aslan said. “I am better than him everywhere. … We are ready for everything. We have our game plan. When he comes aggressive, I am ready. When he will go back, I am ready. When he wants to shoot, I am ready. I am ready for everything.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 252.