By MATT MOLGAARD
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer

By all accounts Dustin Jacoby has the cards stacked against him. He’ll serve as a late replacement for Tim Credeur, who was forced to withdraw from his scheduled UFC 137 clash with dangerous Hawaiian, Brad Tavares.

On paper it seems a mountain that Jacoby will be forced to climb. He’s the lesser experienced of the two fighters, he’s banked zero octagon time and he (as mentioned) will be stepping in on short notice. The kid’s looking at one hell of a challenge, but he’s got some strengths going for him as well.

Tavares likely knows little about Dustin, while Dustin has had The Ultimate Fighter, and a small handful of post reality show UFC bouts to study. One must imagine he’s got slightly less wear and tear on his body given the fact that he’s been fighting professionally for less than two years, and he’s got none of the weight of this bout on his shoulders. If he comes up short, one can chalk that up to inappropriate time to prepare. However, if he wins, he’ll stun pundits, and likely secure an extended stay within the UFC fold.

No matter how you look at it, Dustin believes in himself, and his ability to prevail, as you’ll learn by reading this exclusive interview we just conducted with the UFC newcomer!

Matt Molgaard/MMANEWS.COM: First off, how does it feel to get the chance to be fighting for the UFC?

Dustin Jacoby: At first it was such a surreal feeling, but as the days have passed, I fully realize this is where I belong - competing with the best fighters in the world. Needless to say, I am thrilled to death.

MMANEWS.COM: You've been fighting for less than two years. Did it surprise you that this chance came your way so early in your career?

Dustin Jacoby: I've competed my whole life. I've always been the team leader and a guy my team looks up to and can count on. To be honest, I knew I would be in this position; it was only a matter of time. I've trained with guys in the UFC such as Matt Hughes, Robbie Lawler, Brian Foster, Matt Veach, and Kyle Watson; not to mention a world class Trainer in Coach Marc Fiore. So, I knew as long as I did my job, I'd be in this position in no time.

MMANEWS.COM: Any concern with being overwhelmed by the situation? You know, the first time jitters as they say.

Dustin Jacoby: That doesn't concern me one bit. I've played in big games my whole life, and as far as the first time jitters, my first amateur fight and my first professional fight are in the rear-view mirror. Oct. 29 at UFC 137 is business as usual for me.

MMANEWS.COM: As a fighter, what do you consider your greatest strength?

Dustin Jacoby: I believe my greatest strength is my poise and athleticism. I played QB at the collegiate level for a reason, and I've been successful in my fight career for a reason. I know how to relax and really just seize the moment and take advantage of the opportunity I have been given.

MMANEWS.COM: What are your thoughts on Brad Tavares as a fighter?

Dustin Jacoby: Brad Tavares is a very tough dude. I remember watching him on TUF 11 and I was a fan of him as a fighter and as a person. He has a lot of power and a solid chin. I am going to enjoy crossing paths with Mr. Tavares.