After a difficult 2025 that halted his rise up the heavyweight rankings, Serghei Spivac enters UFC Houston determined to start the new year off right. Spivac faces Ante Delija in a crucial showdown as he tries to steady the ship and avoid the dreaded three-fight skid.
“2025 was, so to speak, a kind of year of defeat for me,” Spivac told reporters, including Cageside Press, through a translator on Wednesday.
“Every defeat is also a big victory. This is a way to look at your mistakes, work on your mistakes and improve yourself. Of course I come here for the victory, but I always prepare to come out and show the best of myself and win. Every fight is very important.”
Spivac (17-6) was measured in his assessment of Delija, showing respect for the veteran’s resume and longevity in the sport. Although the stakes are high, he made it clear that he sees this match as a meaningful challenge and not just another opponent.
“He’s a good guy. He has a lot of experience. He’s been fighting for a long time. I think he’s a good fighter and a good test for myself,” he said.
When asked if the recent selection cuts, namely Jailton Almeida, in the heavyweight division added extra weight to his upcoming fight, Spivac remained calm. While he acknowledged that the business side of the sport can be cutthroat, he emphasized that his focus remains firmly on what he can control.
“I saw the news. I saw that he was cut, it’s a shame, I’m not happy that something like that happens. I don’t feel any extra pressure because I’m a fighter. I work and improve myself as a fighter. Those are the variables I can work on, specifically to improve my skills,” he told Cageside Press.
“I can’t worry or feel pressured by things I have no control over.”
Watch the entire media day scrum with Serghei Spivac above. He will face Ante Delija on Saturday night at UFC Houston.
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