Joe Piper opens up about their altercation with Kelvin Gastelum.
UFC Middleweight Contender Joe Pyfer Prepares for Rescheduled Bout Against Kelvin Gastelum
American mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Joe Pyfer is gearing up for his June 8 UFC 316 main card fight against Kelvin Gastelum, following a postponement from a previous scheduled bout due to Pyfer's illness.
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Pyfer expressed his relief and excitement about the rescheduled fight, labeling it a "bonus" opportunity to showcase his skills. "I was concerned that the fight might not happen, but I'm thrilled for the chance to shine," Pyfer stated. "I respect Gastelum, but I see this as a relatively easy win."
Pyfer added that he had been training with an intense focus in preparation for the rescheduled bout. "Gastelum was gracious, and I was considerate in return, but I've approached this preparation like a madman," Pyfer shared.
Initially scheduled for a UFC Fight Night event in Mexico City earlier this year, the fight was postponed when Pyfer fell ill on the day of the event. The bout's rescheduling for the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, represents a significant step in Pyfer's UFC career as he seeks to build momentum after initial UFC successes and challenge himself against a well-known opponent like Gastelum.
Joe Pyfer's UFC career began in 2018, having endured a troubled and abusive childhood that he plans to share in an upcoming documentary. Despite facing hardships early on, Pyfer has been able to forge a successful career in MMA, amassing a record of 13 wins and 3 losses, with a UFC record of 4 wins and 1 loss as of May 2025[1][4].
Pyfer emerged as a UFC contender after winning Dana White's Contender Series in 2018[4]. The rescheduled fight against Gastelum promises to be an exciting test for Pyfer as he looks to cement his position in the UFC's middleweight division.
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Bookmakers are likely to see increased wagers on the UFC Middleweight division following the rescheduled bout between Joe Pyfer and Kelvin Gastelum, given Pyfer's strong performance in the UFC and his confident outlook. Pyfer's intense preparations and desire to showcase his skills in mixed martial arts (MMA) make this sports event an intriguing match-up for bettors.
