(Exclusive) Explosive UFC matchup manifested over 10 years gets booked

Jimmy Flick announces explosive UFC matchup 10 years in the making as the flyweight star aims for a bright future.

(Exclusive) Explosive UFC matchup manifested over 10 years gets booked

Jimmy Flick returns soon to the UFC (Image via X/UFC.com)

Alexandre Pantoja currently rules the UFC flyweight division, with contenders like Brandon Moreno, Manel Kape, and Brandon Royval on the cusp of a title shot. Meanwhile, fighters outside the rankings can slide into the top 10 and claim a title shot, just like Steve Erceg did last year. One fighter is taking one step at a time and aims to gather a winning momentum.

In an exclusive FirstSportz interview with Garrett Kerman, flyweight star Jimmy “The Brick” Flick has revealed his next octagon appearance. The tricky submission specialist faces an explosive matchup against veteran Matt Schnell in 2025. Ahead of the matchup, Flick has issued a stern warning to the veteran on what awaits him soon.

I’m sending him into retirement! I’m going to have family, friends, my kids. It’s just a whole different kind of excitement to be able to get this experience. This is everything I ever worked for and wanted when I was 15 years old.

Jimmy Flick via FirstSportz Exclusive Interview

The announcement comes as Flick prepares to make his highly anticipated return to the octagon since his three-round decision loss against Nate Maness. The Oklahoma native is particularly thrilled about fighting in front of a large crowd. Meanwhile, Matt Schnell is on a three-fight losing streak, losing all three fights via finish.

Jimmy Flick reveals a unique 10-year history with Matt Schnell

The flyweight matchup scheduled for the first half of 2025 has a bit of a background story. The flyweight division historically doesn’t have a storyline that always excites the fan base. However, there is a connection between Flick and Schnell.

There was a little show called Caged over 10 years ago. And, on that show called Caged, they had a lot of these guys from Louisiana that fought. When I watched his show, I was like, man, ain’t none of these guys going to make it to the UFC. There was only two fighters I thought that might make it. And one was Tony Kelly, which here lately didn’t do too great in the UFC, but he did make it to the UFC, made waves. And then the other one was Matt Schnell.

Jimmy Flick via FirstSportz Exclusive Interview
Jimmy Flick vs. Matt Schnell
Jimmy Flick vs. Matt Schnell (Image via UFC.com/X)

The matchup holds special significance for Flick, who sees it as an opportunity to face someone he’s admired throughout his career. Schnell has competed in the UFC since 2016, and can outperform anyone as seen from his sensational victory over Su Mudaerji.

Jimmy Flick has a realistic championship timeline in mind

For Flick, this fight represents more than just another bout – it’s a chance to solidify his place in the UFC’s flyweight division. With a record of 2-3 in the promotion, he’s acutely aware of the importance of this matchup. The flyweight star even admitted that the loser of the upcoming bout could face the axe from the UFC. Looking ahead, Flick has ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond.

I want to go 3-0 in 2025, be ranked in 2026, and then make a run at that UFC 125 title.

Jimmy Flick via FirstSportz Exclusive Interview
Jimmy Flick targets UFC gold
Jimmy Flick targets UFC gold (Image via UFC.com/MMA Fighting)

As the countdown to the fight begins, all eyes will be on Jimmy Flick on to make the most out of his next chance. Could we see him replicate that outstanding flying triangle-choke again? Only time will tell as fans should expect nothing less than fireworks when these two flyweights step into the octagon.

Related: Alexandre Pantoja Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House