Islam Dulatov doesn't need tape on Wellington Turman: 'I just want to knock him out'

Islam Dulatov is confident heading into his welterweight clash against Wellington Turman at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 25 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The rising prospect has dismissed the need to study his opponent's film, instead focusing on his primary objective: a knockout.

Dulatov (12-1) is making his second UFC appearance after earning his contract through Dana White's Contender Series. His opponent, Turman (18-8), enters the bout on a three-fight losing streak and in a precarious position regarding his roster status. Despite limited available footage on Turman, Dulatov remains unbothered by the lack of preparation material.

"Not that much footage of him," Dulatov said. "But he is the same person, he has the same chin, and he has the same style he had before. If he learned some stuff it's good for him. But at the end of the day, for what I want to do with him, I don't need to see footage. I just want to knock him out."

The 27-year-old has built an impressive finishing record, converting all 12 of his professional wins into finishes. He has competed beyond the first round only once since his sole loss in his pro debut in 2019, and earned a first-round knockout over Adam Fugitt in his UFC debut last year. Dulatov, a former model who has represented Versace, Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, and Hugo Boss, recently announced he will represent Turkey going forward. "First round finish is the perfect performance for me," he explained. "I don't like to fight too much. I don't get paid by minutes."