Junior dos Santos’ dream of competing for the UFC heavyweight title is about to become a reality.
Dos Santos will face Cain Velasquez this weekend in what is sure to be a monumental moment for the UFC and, more importantly, for the sport. UFC on FOX is set to be broadcast in over 15 different countries worldwide, including dos Santos’ homeland of Brazil on Globo.
Despite the national coverage, the heavy-handed Brazilian doesn’t feel any pressure heading into his bout against Velasquez, but rather, he embraces it.
In an exclusive interview with TATAME.com, “Cigano” said the chance of headlining the event could not only change the sport, but his career as well.
“I want to do the best inside the octagon and make my Brazilian fans proud, since they’ll watch me live on Globo,” dos Santos said.
“I guess the explosion for the sport and for the athlete is a big deal, and I’m sure it’ll bring them, in the future, more money (of sponsorship). As the fans worship the sport, it’s a bigger appeal for bigger sponsors.”
A native of Caçador, Santa Catarina, dos Santos’ success has already made him one of the more popular fighters in his country, and as a result, Brazilian fans have invested a huge amount of interest in the 27-year-old.
As he heads into this weekend, with an entire nation in full support of him, dos Santos is humbled by the goals he’s accomplished thus far in the UFC, and if he has his way, he’ll have reached his ultimate goal of becoming UFC heavyweight champion.
Dos Santos is very appreciative of the overwhelming support he has received in Brazil, and he promises to fulfill his ambition, and his country’s ambition, of becoming world heavyweight champion.
“I’m glad to feel their interest and people’s affection, and I feel they have my back on this journey,” he said. “I’ll go there carrying a positive energy I’ve been getting, I’ll be faithful and I’ll pour my heart out to bring this belt to Brazil.”
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