Patricio Freire, esteemed as one of the most expert fighters never to have joined the UFC, has at long last entered its circle. In a career spanning a decade, Freire solidified a remarkable legacy as a double champion under Bellator. His transition to UFC comes after a time marked by unanticipated uncertainty post his PFL departure.
Dissecting this period, Freire divulged how he and his team initially presumed that his acquisition by the UFC would be a swift process following his release. Proclaiming this through a professional interpreter, Freire talked about how they were expecting an immediate announcement post his release and were taken aback when it did not occur.
Over a few hurdles, they did have to stride. A certain influential figure within the UFC administration was not in favor of integrating Freire due to his age. However, after some persuasions, his resistance succumbed, and he eventually agreed to Freire’s entry into the UFC.
There were mixed feelings among the UFC officialdom about adding Freire to the team. Nevertheless, all discrepancies were put to rest as they watched Freire accept matchups that other UFC contenders were hesitant to undertake. Consequently, a challenger finally stepped forward.
Yair Rodriguez, with a formidable record of 16-5 MMA and 10-4 UFC, agreed to compete against Freire. The combat is slated for April 12 at UFC 314, to take place in Miami. As for the other fighters in the division, Freire expressed disappointment with their reluctance during the matchmaking phase.
Indeed, Freire was candid in his criticism of his peers, labeling them as timorous. Emphasizing his belief that a true fighter must face all battles, he warned his contenders not to avoid him, likening himself to the Boogeyman who would hunt them down.
At 37, Freire has seen his share of skeptics, some within the UFC and among its fandom. Concerns about his longevity in the sport due to his age have been a frequently discussed point. Despite the discourse, Freire insisted that he has science backing his endurance and resilience.
Freire shared how he had managed to restore his physical strength and is now feeling a renewed energy. Undeniably, he is not as young as he once was, and he acknowledges the explosive vigor of his younger counterparts. However, he also emphasized that with age comes invaluable experience.
Freire’s illustrious career in Bellator was abundant in both prestige and prosperity, contributing massively to his name and fame. However, his shifting focus led him to the UFC. It was not merely about what he had accomplished or where he stood but about where he aspired to go next.
Now situated within the UFC, his sights aren’t set on his past accomplishments reflected back at him. Instead, his gaze is unwaveringly set on the horizons of the future, specifically, the UFC gold. He is determined not to lose sight of this goal.
While he is aware that his past laurels will be discussed a decade hence, he is staunchly focused on his impending bouts and the tasks at hand. His next fight has captured his complete attention, and he is entirely concentrated on emerging victorious.
Furthermore, Freire intends to make his debut memorable by securing a win and subsequently securing a shot at the UFC title. The confidence in his approach is discernible as he reaffirmed, certain of his path leading to the UFC title.
Knowing he has to perform his best and secure victory, Freire is entirely engrossed in his preparations. Every detail, every step undertaken now is aimed at acquiring the coveted UFC title. This singular focus forms the crux of his current endeavours.