I overcame the upset to build a career in the UFC.

Trying to rebound in enemy territory isn't ideal for Paul Craig, but he's no stranger to defying expectations.

Craig (17-7-1 MMA, 9-7-1 UFC) takes on Brazil's Caio Boralho (15-1 MMA, 5-0 UFC) in Saturday's UFC 301 (pay-per-view/ESPN/ESPN+) main card opener. to play against. Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro.

Craig is a big underdog against the burgeoning Boralho. He admits that he views this matchup as an attempt by the UFC to make him lose, but he relishes the opportunity to spoil the fight.

“When you look at your opponent, you have to be honest with yourself,” Craig told MMA Junkie. “He's younger. He's Brazilian. They take a Scottish guy to Brazil.

“Obviously it's not going to be a favorable fight, but we've built our UFC careers on overcoming upsets. We got the win, and that's what we're going to do this weekend.”

Those names happen to be similar to former champion Jamahal Hill and top contender Magomed Ankalaev, both of whom Craig finished with during his light heavyweight days.

Craig praised Boralho's heavy hands and grappling skills, but believes there is one major difference.

“He doesn't have the grit that Paul Craig has,” Craig said. “He doesn't have that crazy jiu-jitsu like Paul Craig. He just hits a few shots and gets a submission. He doesn't have that and I don't think he would have faced someone like me. He's faced good wrestlers, good jiu-jitsu, good boxers, and he's come through those situations.

“He's got five fights in the UFC and he's pretty much got that chance now. I think of myself as the gatekeeper for most weight classes. If he can beat Paul Craig I'm going to go out there and give it my all.”

For more information on the card, check out MMA Junkie's UFC 301 event hub.