L. Santos is a Brazilian highlight in UFC Las Vegas 44. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Ultimate veteran, Leo Santos is ready for another commitment with the organization's gloves. Champion of The Ultimate Fighter Brazil (TUF) 2, the athlete faces Clay guida this Saturday (4), at UFC Las Vegas 44. Before the clash, the Brazilian spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS.
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Among the topics covered, the fighter commented on his first defeat in Ultimate, his preparation to try to turn things around, analyzed his next rival and commented on his longevity in MMA. The Brazilian also opened up about the opportunities he lacked within the UFC.
Sensation after first UFC defeat
Those who have been following Ultimate for the longest time know that Léo has shined in the octagon since 2013, when he won the TUF 2 final against William Patolino. Since then, there have been seven commitments and the first defeat ended up coming in March of this season. After the stumble, Santos opened the game and spoke about the feeling.
“I've been doing jiu-jitsu since I was eight years old, so defeat, for me, is always bad. I don't see it as something normal. I'd be lying if I said I thought it was normal. In jiu-jitsu, I lost many times, but I won more. The idea is this: win more than you lose. Every time I lost, I trained harder, came back stronger, learned the hard way. It’s a sport that teaches you in a tough way, but you need to evolve,” he said.
Preparation for the confrontation
Just over eight months after his defeat in Ultimate, the Brazilian spoke about his preparation to face the folkloric Clay guida. According to the light weight (up to 70,3 kg.), there are reasons for fans to be excited to watch it over the weekend.
“We innovated in some things. We can only say if it worked after the fight (laughs). It was amazing. There wasn't anything bad. Everything went very well,” he said.
Talking about opportunities
Marked in the organization's history as one of the winners of the traditional reality show, 'The Ultimate Fighter', Léo understands that he didn't always have the best opportunities within the company. Even with a convincing resume, the fighter finds it difficult to be selected against elite opponents. Thus, the combatant made his outburst.
“I'm already asking for someone with a name, ranked since I joined (the UFC), since I won TUF. I think I'm the only guy on TUF who won eight fights and didn't make the rankings. I remember I spoke to Dedé (Pederneiras, Santos coach): 'What do I have to do? Do I have to swear?'. I sent names, researched everyone's schedule, who was going to fight, the guys never answered. After a defeat, they came up with the name of the Clay guida. It was a victory of patience,” she described.
Opponent analysis
This weekend, Santos will share the octagon against an athlete who was once close to competing for the lightweight belt. Marked by his extravagant style, Clay is loved by MMA fans, as well as bringing danger to his opponents. In this way, the Brazilian analyzed his rival.
“I have to pay attention to his wrestling and movement. He's not a normal guy. He moves in a different way, does crazy things, but his strong point is wrestling. You have to pay attention to takedown defenses to find the right moment to counterattack or take him down too,” he said.
Longevity in MMA
In January, Santos will turn 42 years old. The athlete, however, is healthy and spoke about his longevity in the sport.
“I’m well preserved (laughs). I went through generations. I started jiu-jitsu when I was eight years old, and MMA when I was in my early 20s. So, I watch people passing by and I continue. Slowly, but I'm always there. What discourages me most is when there is an injury. You have no power over it. I do everything right, but when you get hurt, you get a little lost. You have to keep training. That's what makes you happy. Fighting is my life, since my childhood. How will I live without this? I could be enjoying it, but that's what I enjoy. My favorite thing is to punch and kick other people in the face (laughs)”, he said.
Ideal ending for Saturday
Famous for his excellent jiu-jitsu, Léo doesn't hesitate when asked how he would like to win. Without even thinking, the fighter sinks.
“Finishment in the first round. Do your job well, and the money will come (laughs)”, he concluded.
Athletes' history
At 41, Leo Santos is heading towards his 23rd fight as a professional in MMA. Today, the fighter has 18 wins, four losses and one draw.
Veteran in mixed martial arts, Clay guida arrives at UFC Las Vegas 44 for his 52nd clash. In the sport since 2003, the North American has 36 triumphs and 21 setbacks.
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