Days after surprising and being confirmed as a PFL reinforcement for the 2023 season, Thiago Marreta spoke about his decision to leave the UFC. Exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS, the Brazilian explained the reason for the option and projected a successful future in the 'new home'. Next season, the light heavyweight (up to 93kg) would complete 10 years of Ultimate.
Former challenger for the belt in the under-93kg category, Marreta, for years, was the highlight of the group. In 2019, the Brazilian was close to shocking the world, when he gave a real battle to the legendary Jon Jones, being overcome in a split decision by the judges.
Why leave the UFC?
On the eve of the confirmation of the agreement with the PFL, Thiago publicly expressed his interest in performing at UFC Rio, which takes place in January 2023. The athlete then narrates the process of leaving the organization he defended for almost 10 years .
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“We had been 'dating' with the PFL for some time. I had conversations with my manager. They asked about me, about how my contract was going. I had one more fight left in my contract with the UFC. I had talked about fighting at UFC Rio, but the PFL came with a very good proposal for us. We spoke to the UFC and decided not to wait. Everything was resolved peacefully, quickly. One day, he had talked about fighting at UFC Brazil. There had been that controversy with (Paulo) Borrachinha. (…) I talked to my wife and we chose to make this decision. I’m satisfied,” he said.
Eternal gratitude
Known worldwide for his aggressive performances, Marreta doesn't want to criticize the UFC. The fighter makes a point of recording the satisfaction of, for years, having represented one of the largest MMA organizations in the world.
“I had an incredible career in the UFC. I have no criticisms. I am eternally grateful. I am who I am and I have everything I have because of the opportunity they gave me. I made a name for myself”, he guaranteed.
Separate attraction
After being announced as the PFL's new reinforcement, Thiago briefly commented on the salary issue. According to the Brazilian, the amount offered by the Professional Fighters League ended up influencing the decision.
“Financially it was better for me, yes,” he said.
Expectations for the future
From 2023 onwards, Marreta will join the group of PFL athletes and will be included in the light heavyweight tournament. In addition to the opportunity to wear the company's belt, the Tupiniquim will also fight for the dream prize of US$1 million (more than R$5 million).
“It’s all new. It's a different event mechanism. We have that season where you fight three, four times in a row. Then it's over and you have a rest period. Another good thing is that they let me compete in another event. I have the possibility of having a boxing match. New event, with new rules. It has to do with me. I'm not a controversial, loudmouth guy; This is the kind of thing that the UFC values a lot. There is no way to skip steps. Or win your fights, go to the final and win. There is no other way”, he concluded.
Athlete's history
At 38, Thiago Marreta He has 33 fights as a professional in MMA. Today, the Brazilian has 22 wins and 11 losses in the sport.
