UFC middleweight power puncher, Gregory Rodrigues, was bludgeoned into the loss column by former 185-pound title challenger, Jared Cannonier, during their “Fight of the Night” brawl atop the UFC Vegas 102 fight card last weekend in Las Vegas.
A wonky weight cut may have contributed to the finish.
“It’s my birthday today, and even though it was a tough day at work, I’m grateful for everything God has done and continues to do in my life,” Rodrigues wrote on Instagram. “Big thanks to the UFC team for the opportunity. I’m truly honored to have shared the Octagon with the No. 7 in the division. Cannonier is a highly experienced fighter who taught me a lot in this fight! I saw several details that can be improved, things that will be changed. Winning ‘Fight of the Night’ was a gift for two warriors who weren’t afraid to go to battle.”
The loss to “Killa Gorilla” snapped the Brazilian’s three-fight win streak.
“Most people don’t know this, but I had serious issues on my recovery after weight cut,” Rodrigues continued. “My body just wasn’t responding. I keep wondering how things would’ve played out if I had been at 100 percent. But no sad stories here. Robocop never dies! Time to recharge, reset the system, and upgrade, because I’m just getting started! Huge thanks for all the love, to my friends and family who always stand by my side, and to my real fans, you guys outshine the haters every time! Much love to my coaches, my strength team, and my doctors and nutritionist.”
The 33 year-old Rodrigues (16-6) is a muscular 6’3” and one of the biggest middleweights on the roster, which is why pundits continue to call for his jump to 205 pounds. No word yet on when “Robocop” will make his Octagon return, but second half of 2025 seems likely.
For more UFC Vegas 102 results and fallout click here.
