André Mascot on Dana White's side. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Victim of a bite on his debut in the biggest MMA organization in the world, André Mascote is ready for his next challenge in the company. Flyweight promise (up to 56,7kg), the Brazilian spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS about the commitment against Mitch Raposo No. UFC 302, which takes place this Saturday (1). The athlete also opened up about his ambitions for the future.
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A professional in MMA since 2022, Mascote hopes to emerge as one of the biggest names in the sport. Undefeated in the sport, the Tupiniquim faces his first challenge after his victory over Igor Severino by disqualification.
The commitment at UFC 302
Betting on the future of Brazilian MMA, André shares the octagon with the newcomer Mitch Raposo. The fighter then evaluated his opponent and the 'marriage of styles' for the weekend.
“I have an advantage in terms of size. My kickboxing takes the lead. I respect his boxing. There's good boxing, based on wrestling. (…) He is a technician. I have to be careful. (…) I see him as a Chad Mendes flyweight. If, in the fight, he is better at wrestling, I have better jiu-jitsu. I want to show this. If you put me down, I'll use jiu-jitsu and squeeze him. In striking, let's see who is tougher. As I'm a striker, I always have to fight a dangerous fight. Here, give it here”, said Mascote.
Dream of facing the champion
Respectfully, André did not hide his ambition for the continuation of his career. With the philosophy of 'one step at a time', the fighter expressed his dream of measuring strength with his compatriot and flyweight champion, Alexandre pantoja.
“My dream fight is against Pantoja. Preferably, him being the champion. Brazil against Brazil. I respect Pantoja's legacy. He is the king of our category. Maximum respect to him. I hope he keeps the belt until I can get ranked. He is very complete. He's very good at grappling. If I can show that my striking is different, I will have the opportunity. What Pantoja is good at, I'm training every day, 100%. He has more experience. He's fought the best. I'm a complete fighter, but I'm still evolving. I’m 25 years old and I have a lot to improve”, said Mascote.
'I want a helicopter'
After the victory over Igor Severino in an episode that gained worldwide repercussion, due to the bite he suffered, André ended up being awarded by his boss, Dana White. Upon receiving the 'Bite of the Event' bonus, the Brazilian decided to invest part of the US$50 (around R$260) in luxury cars. The Brazilian then joked about the situation and admitted to dreaming even bigger.
“It’s one step at a time. It's marketing. We give what the internet wants. If you can buy a Porshe, a yacht, that's another thing. I will use the internet to my advantage. If I show up with something new, that's the idea. The objective is to buy a helicopter. Coming here (United States) by helicopter”, assured Mascote.
Athletes' history
At 25 years old, André is heading towards his ninth fight as a professional in MMA. Today, the Brazilian is undefeated and has five knockouts.
Responsible for trying to 'spoil Mascot's party', Mitch Raposo totals 10 presentations in the modality. The athlete has nine triumphs and one setback.
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