Mario Pinto says casual fans are overlooking Ryan Spann

Mario Pinto knows he will face a more experienced opponent when he clashes against Ryan Spann at UFC Paris on Saturday. However, the Portuguese heavyweight believes many fans are underestimating the American ahead of their matchup and says the veteran's well-rounded game makes him a dangerous opponent.

Mario Pinto Warns Against Overlooking Ryan Spann

Spann enters the matchup with considerably more experience than Pinto. "Superman" has competed in the UFC since 2020 and faced several ranked opponents throughout his career. Pinto believes the veteran's lack of media attention has caused some fans to overlook what he brings to the Octagon. Speaking to the UFC this week in Paris, the Portuguese fighter praised his opponent while explaining why he expects a difficult challenge.

"He's definitely got the experience on me," Pinto said. "I can't take that away from him. But it's just a new challenge for me, and I've got to get through Ryan Spann. I know Ryan's very well-rounded, and unfortunately a lot of the casuals are overlooking him. He's not very big in terms of media presence, but he's been around. He's knocked out a lot of contenders and champions. […] You've got to respect him. He's got a lot of submissions. So he's very dangerous, but I feel like he's what's going to bring the best out of me."

Mario Pinto Embraces Pressure at UFC Paris

Pinto arrives at UFC Paris ready to make his second Octagon appearance this year after defeating Felipe Franco by unanimous decision in March. Undefeated in his professional career with a 12-0 record, the Portuguese heavyweight knows there is plenty of pressure to maintain his perfect record. However, Pinto says he is no longer concerned about protecting his undefeated status and simply wants to perform at his best.

"There's definitely pressure – lots of pressure," Pinto told the UFC this week in Paris. "But at the end of the day, whatever happens happens. It's fighting. It's a lot easier to be undefeated in boxing – they're protected. In the UFC, you've got to fight the best. You can't really pick who you want. I don't care anymore now about the record stuff. I just want to go out there and perform."