Chepe Mariscal’s recent display in his fourth UFC appearance was nearly impeccable. Triumphant over seasoned contender Damon Jackson, Mariscal proved his prowess in his debut UFC co-main event. Despite the highlights of UFC on ESPN 61 on Saturday at the UFC Apex, Mariscal couldn’t achieve the set featherweight limit, overshooting by 3.5 pounds.
The scale mishap marked a low point for Mariscal in what he viewed as the pivotal match of his MMA journey so far. Misjudging the influence of Las Vegas’s warmth on his weight loss measures led to the unintended excess. Speaking at the UFC on ESPN 61 post-bout press conference, Mariscal expressed his discontent.
‘I must admit our calculations regarding the weight cut were off,’ he confessed. ‘Overestimating the impact of the Vegas heat led to this unfavorable situation.’ Mariscal made no effort to hide his disappointment about the weight issue, seemingly mortified about entering the match not meeting the weight standards.
He admitted openly during the press conference, ‘I was on the brink of withdrawing from the bout due to the weight mishap. It’s a matter of respect to other fighters who make the weight and put in the required effort. My wrong calculation did not only let these professionals down but also myself, and that’s why I felt low.’
Discouragement consumed him. Mariscal confessed, ‘I was initially hesitant to even arrive at the arena.’ However, the steadfast encouragement of his corner kept him from bowing out in the dark time. ‘My team reminded me that we must strive under any circumstances. They insisted that if the opponent refused to fight over this issue, it’s fine.’
Mariscal’s only choice was to press on, led by the fortitude of his team: ‘They emphasized that our responsibility was to do everything in our power to proceed with the fight. And that’s exactly what we did.’ As a result of his weight miscalculation, he forfeited part of his pay, a consequence he accepted with grace.
The highlighted match concluded with Mariscal adding Jackson’s name to his victory list. In the aftermath of this match, Marsical has broken out with a remarkable seven-bout winning streak. Despite the four losses suffered in the UFC’s Octagon, Mariscal focuses solely on the positive aspects of his career.
Asking about his future anticipation in the UFC, Mariscal crafts a confident reply. Although the opportunity to face a ranked opponent is appealing, he doesn’t seem perturbed by the lack of confirmation. His primary goal is to continue his journey, regardless of who stands in his path.
He confidently affirmed, ‘I don’t possess any particular preference regarding my next opponent.’ The fear of facing anyone in the featherweight or lightweight division is foreign to him. Mariscal’s readiness to face the next challenge is unabashed: ‘I am prepared to take command over anyone determined to cross my path.’
‘My journey is all about facing challenges, regardless of who they are,’ Mariscal declared, projecting an air of determination. With an undefeated record in the UFC thus far, the fighter makes his intentions clear: ‘I am committed to maintaining this momentum in the UFC.’