Fired from UFC, Cara de Sapato surprises with statement about his career in the organization

A. Shoe Face He is the champion of TUF Brasil 3. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

It is no secret that Antonio Shoe Guy is no longer part of the group of Ultimate athletes. The athlete, however, has a lot to say about his career in the organization. Champion of the third edition of TUF (The Ultimate Fighter) 3, the athlete surprised in an outburst made to 'MMA fighting', in which he analyzed the reasons that resulted in his dismissal at the beginning of the month.

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“When one door closes, others open. That's how it happens. We never know what could happen. I know that being released by the UFC was a possibility, but I wasn't thinking about it too much. I was waiting for an answer and the answer came”, said the Brazilian.

For years, Shoe Face was considered a Brazilian promise for middleweight (up to 83,9kg.). However, the athlete did not have a positive recent record and, with three consecutive defeats, the fighter ended up not resisting and was dismissed along with other names.

“At first, you get upset. You have that personal goal that you want to achieve. I got there for the belt, but it's not in our hands. I wanted to win the title, leave the company as champion. Afterwards, I started to see that there are other opportunities outside. So, I felt a little freer because of the negotiations and the sponsorships,” he said.

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With seven wins in 13 fights for the company, Antônio stood out for his characteristic style. Owner of keen jiu-jitsu, the athlete, however, surprised when he said that his characteristics as a fighter may have been important for his dismissal.

“In this business, we have to be happy with what we have, and at some point I felt like they weren’t happy. I think the UFC wants a type of fighter that I'm not. I'm not the type to talk a lot. So I think they weren't happy and that makes me sad too. Other places may welcome someone who fits in like me,” he declared.

Lastly, Shoe Face continues with an open future. However, the Brazilian admits that he is already looking for another company to take his talent.

“My manager and I are discussing some ideas. I'm actually feeling freer, more relieved, to be honest. This change will be good for me in some ways, professionally and financially. I think it will be positive. The UFC was great for me for a while, but I think it's time for a change and we'll see what happens next,” he concluded.

At 30, Shoe Face, today, he has 16 appearances as an MMA professional. Over almost eight years competing in the sport, the fighter won 10 victories and suffered five defeats; the Brazilian also has a 'no result' confrontation.

Antônio's last fight took place in January, at UFC 257. On that occasion, the average weight was surpassed by Brad Tavares in the unanimous decision of the judges.