UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano wants to make his case to be the best fighter at 155 pounds undeniable.
Moicano advanced his ambitions on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage with a strong performance in Paris, France this past weekend, where he headlined in enemy territory opposite Benoît Saint Denis.
The Brazilian got out the blocks fast, taking “God of War” down and inflicting a brutal beatdown on the Frenchman. While Saint Denis was able to enjoy a better second frame, the damage he sustained in round one was ultimately too much and led to the doctor’s stoppage.
That result marked the latest triumph in a strong year for Moicano, who has defeated Drew Dober, Jalin Turner, and now Saint Denis since returning from injury.
And with a title to win and a new house to pay for, the 35-year-old says not even a comeback from the division’s greatest could stall his surge…
Moicano ‘Coming For The Gold’ After UFC Paris
While appearing on ESPN MMA’s UFC Fight Night Post Show in Paris, Moicano reflected on his victory inside the Accor Arena and looked ahead to what could lie ahead of him at 155 pounds.
The confident Brazilian reiterated his belief that his recent improvements have given him superiority over the entire division. And with his motivations branching beyond just a planned championship crowning, Moicano says he can’t be stopped.
“I was expecting a complete beatdown like I did. … I don’t want to sound too cocky. But I have been training for that,” Moicano said. “You guys, be ready. ‘Money’ Moicano is coming for the gold. … Right now, I am the best 155er in the division. I just have to prove it.
“I cannot afford to lose. I have a house to pay. … I want to see my kid grow in a great backyard with a pool,” Moicano continued. “Until the house is paid, until my debt is paid, I cannot afford to lose. It doesn’t matter even if Khabib will come back. I will beat Khabib.”
It remains to be seen what will come next for Moicano, who hasn’t been rewarded with the kind of rank rise he expected as a result of his recent win.
Despite remaining at #11 in the pecking order, though, the Brazilian believes he’s done enough to earn a potential title eliminator when he returns to action.
