Favorite of the Brazilian fans and current UFC light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg), Glover Teixeira is close to his first title defense. 'King' of the category since October 2021, the Minas Gerais native spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS about the commitment against Jiri Prochazka, UFC 275, which takes place this Saturday (4). The fighter also opened up about possible retirement.
This weekend, he will try to remain at the absolute top of the 93kg division. To do this, the fighter will need to end the Czech's good moment and end his rival's unbeaten record in Ultimate.
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Underdog at the bookmakers
Owner of the belt for around eight months, Glover will step into the octagon as an underdog in the bookmakers. The champion, however, guarantees not to be bothered by Prochazka's favoritism for the duel.
“I like the sport, I’m prepared and I’m a competitor. I don't have to prove anything, not to myself, not to anyone. (…) I'm training well, everything is going well. What was it like last time? camp (training period), I was an underdog on the betting exchanges. (Jan) Blachowicz was a monster, he had beaten (Israel) Adesanya, coming with that total strength, and I was older. I didn't even get a scratch. Jiri is a good fighter, he has won several victories. (…) It’s about focusing, having fun,” said Teixeira.
Possible retirement
A few weeks ago, Teixeira, 42 years old, worried some of his fans with an interview given to the 'Mundo da Luta' podcast. At the time, the light heavyweight champion admitted that he does not intend to prolong his career for long. To SUPER FIGHTS, the athlete justified his thoughts and left a 'question mark' on the issue.
“I already achieved it. Training is nice, I'm feeling good. If I win (in UFC 275), maybe fight in New York, a farewell. (…) It depends. It is thought. (…) It is difficult. I put myself in the position of being able to do this. (…) I owe Brazil too. Why not?”, he concluded.
Athletes' history
At 42 years old, Glover is heading towards his 41st fight as a professional in MMA. Today, the Minas Gerais native has 33 wins and seven defeats in the sport. If he overcomes Prochazka at the weekend, Teixeira will become the first Brazilian light heavyweight to defend his belt in the group.
Former Rizin star, Jiri will make his first UFC title fight. Today, the 29-year-old Czech has 33 appearances in mixed martial arts, with 28 triumphs, three setbacks and one draw.
