Donchenko Eyes Top 15 With Soriano Win At UFC Paris

Daniil Donchenko believes a finish over Punahele Soriano at UFC Paris this Saturday could land him a spot in the UFC middleweight top 15.

Donchenko, who won The Ultimate Fighter before building momentum in the octagon, faces Soriano on September 5 in a bout that could determine his next step in the division. Soriano brings a four-fight win streak into France, including a victory over current top-10 contender Uros Medic, according to BJPenn.com.

Donchenko Expects Rankings Breakthrough After UFC Paris

Speaking with Bowks Talking Bouts, Donchenko said the winner likely moves into the rankings. "The fighter who will finish this fight probably will go for ranking like top 15," he said, per BJPenn.com. "Probably if, for example, if it will be nice, really nice finish, me or him can be top 15, I guess. If not, definitely we will have someone from top 15 next."

Donchenko noted that three of Soriano's four wins in his current streak came by decision. "If he cannot touch in the first round, he cannot knock people out in second or third round," he said. "It's what I saw. He's really strong. He's really tough."

The TUF champion said Soriano is the toughest test of his career so far. "I think that this kind of fighter is stronger than all my opponents before," Donchenko told Bowks Talking Bouts. "But I think I will not be surprised during this fight. I [am] ready for everything what he can offer. I'm ready for his wrestling, ready for his striking and that's it."

UFC Paris takes place Saturday at Accor Arena with the middleweight matchup on the main card.

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• BJPenn — Daniil Donchenko eyes rankings spot with Punahele Soriano win at UFC Paris