The South Korean light heavyweight made his promotional debut back in August, squaring off with Khadis Ibragimov in Shenzhen, China in a wildly entertaining back-and-forth bout that ended with Jung securing a third-round submission win.
After beginning his career at heavyweight and posting a 1-2 record through his first three starts, the 25-year-old dropped down a division and is undefeated since, with his victory over Ibragimov extending his winning streak to 11. Saturday in Busan, Jung squares off with Contender Series alum Mike Rodriguez, who has gone 1-1 with 1 no contest in his three appearances since earning a UFC contract on the opening season of the summer talent search.
Jung is one of a growing number of international prospects whose upside is difficult to define as there is only so much that can be gleaned from his triumphant run through non-UFC competition on the regional circuit. His performance against Ibragimov showed that he has the tenacity and resolve to wade into the fray and the wherewithal to capitalize on in-fight opportunities when they present themselves, but his ceiling remains unknown.
This showdown with Rodriguez on Saturday should help clarify things as the 31-year-old American works with a quality team and has faced slightly better competition throughout his career. If he can keep his winning streak intact, Jung could establish himself as someone to pay closer attention to in the light heavyweight division next year.
