G. Robocop in UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
In the heart of Las Vegas, where stories of glory and downfall intertwine under the lights of the Apex, a Brazilian arrives for the biggest challenge of his career. With hands of steel and roots in jiu-jitsu, Gregory Robocop does not only carry the green-yellow flag this Saturday (15). On his back, weighs the ambition of entering the elite of the middleweights (up to 83,9 kg.) of the organization, climbing the ranking with a victory over Jared Cannonier, a former title challenger and veteran who still breathes fire at age 40. The showdown takes place in the main event of ufc vegas 102 next Saturday (15).
See too
Born in Porto Velho (RO), Robocop shaped his career in the gentle arts of jiu-jitsu, winning eight national titles and one world title before the age of 25. The ranks, under the tutelage of Henrique Machado (first sensei of Ronaldo Jacare), until the transition to MMA revealed a multifaceted fighter: 63% of his 16 victories came by knockout, including triumphs over Julian Marquez e Chidi Njōkuani.
His path in the UFC, however, was not linear. Controversial defeats, such as the split decision to Armen petrosyan in 2022, and a lightning knockout suffered by Brunno Ferreira in Rio de Janeiro in 2023, tested his resilience. The answer came in consecutive triumphs over Denis Tiuliulin, Brad Tavares e Christian Leroy Duncan — the latter in Manchester, a city he chose as his 'amulet' after following Vitor belfort in 2016.
Jared Cannonier, ranked seventh in the middleweight division, is not just an obstacle in Gregory's path. He is a symbol of resilience. At 40 years old, the American has 17 wins (10 by knockout) and a reputation as a 'cartel breaker', with triumphs over Sean Strickland e Marvin vettori. However, two consecutive defeats for Nassourdine Imavov e Caio Borralho put their position in the Top 10 in check.
Nickname 'Robocop'
Despite his nickname Robocop, which refers to his mechanical impersonality inside the octagon, the Brazilian exudes humanity outside of it: husband of Jessica, father of Serena and a regular churchgoer, he avoids the spotlight. He prefers the simplicity of Manaus to the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.
“Up until then, Distak didn’t even know me well. I was the jiu-jitsu guy and jiu-jitsu guys are tougher and stuff. I was in the back of the gym training and he wanted to call me to introduce me to people, then he shouted “hey, you, Robocop” and that’s where the nickname began. Up until then, I didn’t like it”, he said in an interview with 'ESPN'.
Gregory Robocop's Change for UFC Vegas 102 Fight
Gregory Robocop trains with Artem Vakhitov. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Robocop trained with Artem Vakhitov, world kickboxing champion and former rival of Alex Poatán, to improve his stand-up game, while Cannonier worked on mobility to avoid takedowns.
“I’m ready for it spiritually, mentally and physically. This is the right moment that has come at the right time, and I’m excited. I was just making sure I’m 100% ready, and I am,” the Brazilian said in an interview with 'MMA Junkie'.
You need login To comment.