Exclusive! Caio Machado leaves heavyweight behind and seeks new life at UFC Edmonton

Looking for a fresh start in his career, Caio 'Bigfoot' Machado is preparing for his debut in the light heavyweight category (up to 93kg) at UFC Edmonton, event held this Saturday (2).

In an exclusive interview to SUPER FIGHTS, the fighter from São Paulo revealed details of his preparation and expectations for the fight against Brendson Ribeiro, as well as commenting on recent changes to MMA rules.

Category change

After experiencing all 12 fights of his career in the heaviest weight class in MMA, 'Bigfoot' makes his debut in the light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg). Despite the new challenge, the fighter stated that the decision was already old and brought improvements to his performance.

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“I wanted to change weight classes even before I joined the UFC. I always thought my body would respond well. Before, I was even fighting a little lighter, and that was when I had my best performances. My body responded well, it was just a change in diet and intensity in training. But in terms of how I lost, in terms of my health, it was very good,” he assured.

Rule change

O UFC Edmonton will be the first event to take place after the latest significant change to the Unified Rules of MMA. After being banned for years, the '12-6' elbow will be fully permitted. In addition, there is a new definition of what constitutes an individual 'gounded', being possible to knee the opponent in the head as long as he is not supporting his body weight on his arms, elbows or knees.

Regarding the changes, Machado said he did not see any change in regards to elbow strikes, but said he was happy with the greater permissibility of knee strikes.

“Among the rule changes, the knee strike is much more efficient than the '12-6' elbow strike, especially because I think there are other more dangerous elbow strikes. I don't see it as a movement that generates more power. As for the knee strike with the opponent's hands on the opponent's cage, I think it will be something much more used, more useful”, he declared.

Psychological

So much Caio Machado as Brendson Ribeiro are going through difficult times in the UFC. Both earned their spot in the organization via the Dana White Contender Series, have had two fights each, but have yet to secure their first victory. Even though the unfavorable scenario may bring extra pressure, the São Paulo native assured that he does not feel shaken by the circumstances.

“Every fight is a fight for life. In MMA, you either win or you win, so since my first fight I have come with the mentality that I have to win or I won’t achieve my goals. To be a high-level athlete, you have to be mentally different. Professional sports are not for everyone, they are for those who can take a beating and withstand pressure,” he said.

Expectation for the fight

Amidst all these circumstances, the athlete assured that he had a great time camp training and stated that he will achieve a big victory next weekend, possibly on the fast track.

“It was one of the best camps “This is the best fight of my life, if not the best. I recently left Vancouver, Canada, and returned to my hometown, with the team where I started training, so I’m happy here. Being close to my family has helped a lot too. I’m coming for the best fight of my life. Brendson is a guy who likes to finish the fight, but so far bigger guys haven’t been able to take me down, so I don’t see him doing that. He’ll get frustrated, tired and at some point he’ll give me an opening. If I don’t knock him out, I’ll take this fight by decision. Regardless of the way, the fight will be mine,” he concluded.