The UFC makes their long awaited debut in the state of New York on Saturday November, 12th at Madison Square Garden. Something that has been in the works since the sport was banned in the state almost 20 years ago. Before that happens, the first professional MMA card since the ban was lifted will take place on Friday October 14th in Verona, NY. That’s when Combate Americas: Empire Rising will take place. A card headlined by John “Sexy Mexy” Castaneda vs. Gustavo Lopez in the organizations first ever title fight. We got a chance to talk with headliner and top Bantamweight prospect John Castaneda about his thoughts on making history.
Being on the big stage, fighting in New York, and fighting for the first ever title in promotion history may add extra pressure for some. Castaneda doesn’t see I that way, “I don’t think it’s any added pressure. I do think it’s very honorable though, I take a lot of honor and pride into fighting. Not only for Combate Americas, but like you said, fighting in New York after a 20 plus year ban. I think it’s very cool and a great honor, but in terms of added pressure I don’t think so. My last 4 fights have all been main event fights…”
Listen to the full interview to hear Castaneda talk about his future plans, his current obsession with his opponent, and why he decided to give away his last bonus to the man he beat to earn it. Make sure to watch Castaneda headline Combate Americas: Empire Rising live from the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY. Tune in on Friday October 14th to UFC Fight Pass to catch the action in English or BEIN Sports to watch en Espanol.
