Patricio Pitbull`s drive for UFC 318 is undeniable. His upcoming bout against Dan Ige in New Orleans is one of the most compelling narratives at Saturday`s pay-per-view, second only to the highly anticipated main event. The decorated MMA veteran, known for his title reigns in Bellator`s featherweight and lightweight divisions, made his UFC debut earlier this year after securing his release. However, his initial foray into the Octagon was met with a setback at UFC 314 in Miami, where he was defeated by Yair Rodriguez. This prior outcome underscores the critical importance of his upcoming encounter with Ige, a fact Pitbull himself appears acutely aware of.
Henry Cejudo Details Patricio Pitbull`s Intense Motivation for UFC 318
On a recent installment of his Pound 4 Pound podcast, former UFC champion Henry Cejudo discussed Pitbull`s second UFC appearance with co-host Kamaru Usman. Cejudo, who was in Natal, Brazil, assisting the Bellator icon with his UFC 318 training camp, shared insights into Pitbull`s mindset. Despite his admiration for Dan Ige, Cejudo revealed that he has “never” witnessed Patricio carry such an intense chip on his shoulder as he does heading into Saturday`s pay-per-view event at the Smoothie King Center.
Cejudo stated, “I am actually here in Natal (training with Pitbull) right now. I know Patricio very well. Patricio is like a big brother, man. … Patricio has a chip on his shoulder, Kamaru, that I have never seen before.” He elaborated, noting the only other instance of such determination was after Pitbull`s loss to AJ McKee, a defeat he subsequently avenged. Cejudo concluded, “Every rematch Patricio has ever had, he’s been able to win.”
Patricio Pitbull Faces a Must-Win Scenario at UFC 318
Among all competitors at UFC 318, few will face as much pressure as Patricio Pitbull. Following an underwhelming performance in his highly anticipated UFC debut, a quick rebound is essential for the Brazilian to maintain his aspirations of securing UFC championship gold and further enhancing his already stellar MMA career. At 38 years old, and competing in a division teeming with ambitious young contenders, starting his UFC tenure with an 0-2 record could significantly jeopardize his future prospects. Consequently, the attention of the MMA world is firmly fixed on arguably the most accomplished fighter to ever grace the Bellator cage.
Jack Thornley