Despite recent loss, Roman Dolidze saw middleweight as 'more professional' option for UFC Fight Night 189

LAS VEGAS – Roman Dolidze went two-for-two in the UFC light heavyweight division to kick off his promotional tenure. But in his divisional debut at middleweight, he lost for the first time in his career.

Despite that March loss, Dolidze (8-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) elected to remain at 185 pounds for his return this Saturday at UFC Fight Night 189. Originally scheduled to face Alessio Di Chirico, he now faces Laureno Staropoli (9-3 MMA, 2-2 UFC).

“I think (middleweight) is more professional because before I was cutting, like, a few pounds,” Dolidze told MMA Junkie at a pre-fight media day Wednesday. “I think it’s better to be here in this weight division. … No, (I didn’t think about moving down). I just listened to my corner, to my coaches, and I will do like they want me to.”

UFC Fight Night 189 takes place Saturday at the UFC Apex. The event streams on ESPN+. Check out Dolidze’s full pre-fight news conference in the video above.