“He thinks I am unworthy” - Jarred Brooks itching to make Reece McLaren pay for dismissing his chances at flyweight

Jarred Brooks has always been able to walk the talk through his spectacular performances in the home of martial arts.

This Friday, the interim strawweight MMA world champion wants to make another statement by proving he can conquer a higher division.

'The Monkey God's first foray in the flyweight MMA ranks will be a tough one right off the bat, as he will square off with No.4 ranked Reece McLaren at ONE Fight Night 26: Lee vs Rasulov on Prime Video at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

While Jarred Brooks has sights on two-division supremacy, he admits his opponent also deserves it after being a consistent force in the 135-pound division for years.

The Mash Fight Team representative told Nick Atkin of The Bangkok Post:

"No rush, man. If anything, I feel like Reece McLaren deserved a title shot a long long time ago."

However, Brooks also took note of McLaren's constant provocations in the build-up to their three-round showdown. With less than 24 hours before they settle their differences in the ring, Brooks says he'll simply let his fists do the talking. He added:

"That's one of the reasons, but the main reason why I wanted to fight Reece McLaren is because he thinks I am unworthy. And you think I'm unworthy, you're going to find out real quick that I am not just a small guy, bro."

Prime Video subscribers in North America can watch ONE Fight Night 26 free live as it happens in US Primetime.

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Jarred Brooks says Reece McLaren won't make it the distance

Despite his rather small stature, Jarred Brooks is arguably one of the most physically imposing fighters in the promotion.

'The Monkey God's overwhelming strength and speed have been evident throughout his dominance in the strawweight MMA division.

While McLaren will boast a sizable height and reach advantage, Brooks is confident he can manhandle the Aussie once he gets a hold of him.

"I'm going to be a monkey on your back, bro. And you can't get me off," he told the Bangkok Post.

"I think that in that three rounds I will finish you and I will earn your respect and that's all I want."

Watch the full interview: