Chan Sung Jung Backs ‘Korean Superboy’ To End Slump

UFC Busan provided a bunch of Korean fighters with a massive platform to shine in late 2019. Chan Sung Jung did just that by beating former UFC champion Frankie Edgar in emphatic fashion during the nights main event. However his compatriot Doo Ho Choi suffer a third straight loss against Charles Jourdain. The ‘Korean Superboy’ is without a win since 2016 and will take two years out of the sport to undergo his mandatory South Korean military service. Despite this he has the backing of Jung to return to the top of the sport in 2022. Speaking to MMA Fighting, he said.

“I know how strong Doo Ho Choi is. Anyone who has seen him spar or has sparred with him will know. As long as he keeps his mind at check, he’ll keep on improving because he is still quite young.”

“Doo Ho will be undergoing the same [public service] during his time in the military and will be able to train individually like I did. “I think one’s ability to improve and develop depends on how you spend that time.

“Two years isn’t a short time so it’s going to be mentally draining, but in order to become a top-class fighter, this is also a milestone that one needs to overcome.”

Beyond himself and Choi, the ‘Korean Zombie’ was optimistic about the talent in his country after a successful UFC Busan. Da Un Jung, Jun Yong Park and Seung Woo Choi were all winners that night. As was Kyung Ho Kang, who was the subject of some individual praise from Jung.

“Kyung Ho showed us what he’s capable of, and as for the other Korean fighters, I believe they are all gaining experience in a good way. Being able to win in their home country will definitely help them in the future, especially in their careers.” (Transcribed by MMA Fighting)

Can Doo Ho Choi get back to winning ways after another two years out of the sport?