G. Rodrigues makes his Ultimate debut against D. Todorovic. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
On the eve of having his first UFC fight, Gregory Rodrigues says he is excited to finally make a big dream come true. After missing the opportunity to join the organization through the reality show 'Contender Series', in November 2020, the Brazilian turned things around. Former LFA middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg), he signed a contract to debut against Dusko Todorovic, UFC Las Vegas 28 this Saturday (5).
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In an exclusive interview to SUPER FIGHTS, Gregory reveals that he even thought about retiring from MMA after letting the opportunity slip away in 'Contender Series' and was already making plans to live in Florida for his personal projects at a church. However, he decided to give martial arts another chance and, eight months later, he made his Ultimate debut.
“I believe that some things are necessary to happen in our lives, even if at the moment we don't know the explanation for it. A lot happened before the fight – in preparation and personal problems. After that fight, I thought about stopping and giving up. It was something that impacted me a lot. I had several plans, but the defeat shook me a lot. But I had people who helped me. I had a project at my church and I almost dropped everything to go to Florida and live. But at the time of change, Ed (Soares) called me to fight for the LFA for the middleweight belt and I managed to meet”, said the Brazilian.
Before returning to negotiate with the UFC, Rodrigues still had time to have two fights in the LFA. He even won the lightweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) from his former organization on May 21, by knocking out Josh Fremd in the first round. Still celebrating the title, the Brazilian says he received the most important call of his career to date.
“I started training when I was five years old and it’s been a long journey. I watched Pride and UFC on VHS and wondered if it would ever get here. But today, with everything I've been through, my foot is on the ground. (…) When I won the belt, all my friends were waiting for me and we celebrated with a barbecue. When I saw it, Ed (Soares) and Joinha (Jorge Guimarães), my managers, called me and asked how I was. They told me: 'Didn't you sleep? Then you will probably spend another day without sleeping. You just signed with Ultimate'. And it was special, because I was with my friends. It was a magical moment that God prepared”, said Gregory.
HARMED? WHAT NOTHING…
When asked about the period of time between one fight and another, Gregory Rodrigues also states that he is even more 'willing' to perform. He reveals, in fact, that he will break a personal record when he steps into the octagon this Saturday (5).
“The feeling I have is happiness. Even though I fought two weeks ago, it was a fight where I didn't get hurt and it ended in the first round. The funniest thing is that I already feel like fighting again. Live it all again. I'm breaking a career record, as I've never had more than two fights in a year and now I'm going for my third in less than four months. I'm very happy and I believe this is just the beginning”, said the fighter.
EVOLUTION AS A FIGHTER
In his current phase, the Brazilian secured two knockouts in a row and now faces the Serbian Dusko Todorovic, whose 'strong point' is stand-up play. Known for his high level of jiu-jitsu, 'Robocop', as he is known, reveals that he has evolved in all areas of martial arts and imagines the ideal scenario for the duel.
“One of the things that I have changed a lot is thinking about the fight. I have 15 minutes to fight. I have a background in jiu-jitsu and have competed at a high level. But I didn't 'get caught up' in evolution. MMA is, today, a different sport. You have to do everything at the same time. I have invested in standing and striking. O Dusko Todorovic He’s a tough guy who deserves respect, but I know who I am and I know what I can explore within myself to do my best in the Octagon,” he said.
MESSAGE TO BRAZILIANS
Close to achieving the biggest goal of his career, Gregory Rodrigues also made a point of sending a message to Brazilian fans. He thanks them for their support and says he will 'do his best' to show Brazil's strength in Ultimate.
“Firstly, I want to thank everyone in Brazil who always supported me and followed me. I can leave a message that you will gain more strength from Brazil within the UFC. I'm coming to do my best and represent our nation. I want to show the world that Brazil is a breeding ground for great fighters. I believe everyone will be cheering, cheering and fighting with me. The son never runs away from the fight. I will do my best and bring this victory to Brazil”, he concluded.
Professional since 2014, Gregory Rodrigues has a record of nine wins and three losses in his career. Former LFA champion, the Brazilian comes from two consecutive victories, both by knockout. Now he faces Dusko Todorovic, who has a record of 10 triumphs and one setback.
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