Fighter inside and outside cages. After great repercussion of the report shown by 'Fantástico', on TV Globo, Washington Dourado, the first openly gay fighter in Brazilian MMA, spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS. A featherweight athlete, the fighter opened up about prejudice and invited fans to follow his title defense in the eighth 'Macaco Fight', on May 14.
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An MMA athlete for around 12 years, Washington introduced himself to fans of the sport. Today, the fighter is 29 years old and appears and holds the belt in 'Macaco Fight', where he has already won in six editions.
fighting style
To introduce himself to sports enthusiasts, Dourado described his main characteristics in mixed martial arts. The athlete's strong point is stand-up fighting, marked by aggression.
“I really like Muay Thai, the stand-up fighting itself. For me, it is more advantageous. It’s something that really attracts me, just in striking,” she said.
Decision to accept sexual orientation
Inserted in a largely sexist society, Washington opened up about his decision to accept his sexual orientation. The Pará native then spoke about the reaction of his teammates.
“I always acted naturally. When I entered, I was well received by ex-UFC, Tiago Trator, by 'Macaco' (Ricardo Fonseca). The whole team (received us well). We formed a partnership and it went forward. We have had this union for a long time and we have had great victories,” he said.
Prejudice
With the dream of shining in MMA, Dourado also talked about the reception process from fans, and even opponents. The fighter narrates about his daily life to this day.
“I thought about this situation a lot. 'What will others say?'. I always thought about that. For a while now, I thought: 'this is wrong'. I have my rights. I'm going to look for that space that doesn't. Someone has to give a voice to a class where people leave respect. Sexuality does not define my strength, it will not define my potential. I go there and show what I can do and do it well. The coaches are with me. I’ve always been dedicated,” he explained.
No fear
After becoming a pioneer and being the first openly gay man in Brazilian MMA, Washington spoke about fear. The fighter states that his decision to expose his sexual orientation did not generate fear of any exclusion from possible fights or event contracts.
“I wasn’t scared at all. I have already received support from people. (…) It was very rewarding. I thought for a while, then started putting it into practice. Someone has to represent and, at some point, I will be able to carry the LGBT flag forward. For people to see that we have space”, he guaranteed.
Invite fans
After the outburst, Washington Dourado has an invitation to those who followed his interview. The athlete has an appointment scheduled for next month.
“I'm going to defend my (featherweight) belt on May 14, in one of the best events in the region, which is the eighth 'Macaco Fight”, he concluded.
