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Patricio Freire believes he can still challenge for UFC gold after returning to winning ways with a first-round knockout of Dooho Choi at UFC 331 in Los Angeles.
The former two-division Bellator champion improved his record to 38-9 and moved to 2-2 in the UFC, delivering the statement performance he felt had been missing from his first three appearances.
Freire confident he can compete for a title at 39
Despite approaching the latter stages of his career, “Pitbull” insists he still has the ability and motivation to reach the top.
Speaking to MMA Junkie through an interpreter, Freire pointed to the success of older champions and improvements in training as reasons to believe another title challenge remains possible.
“So yes, I see myself making another title run. I still feel like I have a lot in the tank and that's what I'm pursuing.”
Freire believes fighters who look after themselves can extend their careers and continue competing at the highest level.
Pressure to deliver against Choi
Freire admitted he entered the Choi fight aware that his UFC future could depend on more than simply securing a victory.
Having seen fellow former Bellator fighter Michael Page’s situation, he understood that even winning does not necessarily guarantee a place on the roster.
“For sure, the UFC can even let go of fighters coming off wins as you can see many times if they're not pleased with what they're seeing,” Freire said.
However, his strongest motivation came from his own dissatisfaction with his previous UFC outings.
“So I knew I didn't just have to win – I needed to perform.”
Freire said none of his first three performances had met his standards, making the Choi bout an opportunity to restore his own confidence as well as impress the promotion.
Steve Garcia emerges as a potential next opponent
Freire called out Jean Silva after the knockout but recognises that the Brazilian’s position in the featherweight division could make that matchup unlikely.
He is also interested in facing Arnold Allen or Steve Garcia and hopes to compete again before the end of the year.
“Jean Silva is the main guy that I have on my radar right now, but I know that he has a different reality than me,” Freire said.
With Allen injured and Garcia without a fight booked, Freire sees Garcia as a potentially more realistic option.
“Steve doesn't have a fight right now and Allen is injured, so Steve might make more sense. These are some guys I believe would be great fights for me.”
