Light weight (up to 70,3kg.) Natan schulte takes the first step towards a third PFL Grand Prix championship (Professional Fighters League) this Friday (23), when he faces Marcin Held in the second most important fight of the night. In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS channel, the Brazilian said that he took advantage of his period of inactivity to evolve his game.
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After the COVID-19 pandemic, the PFL even canceled the tournament and, consequently, took away the possibility of Schulte taking action. The fighter, however, denied that he had negotiated with another organization and reaffirmed his interest in winning for the third time and pocketing the incredible amount of US$1 million (around 5,5 million reais at current prices).
“I took this period (of the pandemic) to improve my jiu-jitsu and muay-thai techniques. I tried to improve everything I could improve in the long period I would have without fighting. As I had a contract with them (PFL), I couldn't leave to fight for another organization. My contract prevented me from fighting abroad,” said Schulte.
For the new season, the franchise signed other big names, such as Anthony Pettis, Rory McDonald e Fabricio Werdum. Asked about the additions, Schulte praised the idea of bringing athletes with 'baggage'.
“The PFL was right to bring in renowned athletes, with a lot of experience. This only adds to their squad. It makes the show better for those who watch. So it's going to be really cool. It was very important that they signed with these guys”, said the Brazilian.
FIGHT AGAINST ANTHONY PETTIS
The former Ultimate champion, Anthony Pettis, will also be in contention for the PFL title and 'jackpot'. The North American will even take part in the main fight of this Friday's event (23), against Clay Collard. When evaluating a possible confrontation, Natan praises, but imagines himself submitting the fighter.
“I'm really excited to be able to fight him. He is a former UFC champion and has had his entire history in the WEC. He's a guy with a lot of name. Any athlete would be happy to have a victory on their record for a guy like him (…) I would take him down, take his back and submit him”, he said.
VISIBILITY OF 'CANAL COMBATE'
At the end of March, 'Canal Combate', which belongs to 'Grupo Globo', announced a partnership with the North American league to broadcast live events. Now, the Tupiniquim representative reinforces that the visibility of fighters will also increase.
“The agreement with Canal Combate was a very good idea on their part. The channel has a lot of relevance when it comes to fights and makes it much easier for anyone who wants to watch. For us (athletes), it will also be better. It has much more reach and allows for different visibility. We will be more recognized by the Brazilian public”, he highlighted.
At 29, Natan schulte has an unbeaten record of ten fights. Currently, the Brazilian has a record of 20 wins, three losses and one 'no result' fight.
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