Diego Brandao is proving that mixed martial arts fighters can indeed find success and rebuild their careers after being released by the UFC.
During his time at the peak of his career with the UFC, Brandao, known as ‘Ceara’, won The Ultimate Fighter reality show and competed in the Octagon a total of 10 times.
A notable moment in his UFC tenure was headlining a significant event in Dublin, Ireland, against Conor McGregor in July 2014.
In that fight, McGregor, who would later become a two-division UFC champion, secured a first-round knockout victory. Brandao was released by the promotion three fights after this loss.
Diego Brandao`s Remarkable Comeback Story
Initially, the UFC`s decision seemed justified as Brandao subsequently faced a challenging period, enduring a six-fight losing streak shortly after his departure.
However, the 38-year-old veteran has since dramatically turned his career around. After breaking his losing skid, he has gone on to win six of his last eight bouts.
This resurgence included claiming the Tuff-N-Uff featherweight title in February with a spectacular spinning kick knockout, which was a strong candidate for Knockout of the Year.
That victory was particularly significant as it ended the impressive nine-fight winning streak of promising prospect Jamie Siraj.
Brandao continued this impressive form by successfully defending his title against Canaan Kawaihae (10-2) on Sunday evening.
Despite entering the fight as a considerable underdog at Tuff-N-Uff 145, Brandao secured a TKO win in the fourth round.
This title defense is arguably his most impressive feat yet, considering that just a few years ago, his fighting career appeared to be nearing its end.
Sean Strickland Involved in Viral Incident at the Same Event
In a separate, unrelated incident that gained significant attention online, former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland made an unexpected appearance at the Tuff-N-Uff 145 event.
Strickland became involved in an altercation, entering the cage and punching a fighter after one of his teammates was defeated.
The situation arose when Miles Hunsinger was submitted by Luis Hernandez. Hernandez`s celebration included an offensive gesture directed at Hunsinger`s corner team, which included Strickland.
Strickland, accompanied by fellow UFC middleweight Chris Curtis, reacted by entering the cage to confront Hernandez.
Punches were exchanged during the brief melee before it was quickly broken up, preventing any serious injuries.
Nevertheless, Strickland`s actions could potentially lead to a suspension or fine from the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which regulated the event.
Gareth Pendleton