An impressive knockout against Martín Bravo puts the world's eyes on Humberto Bandenay, who at 22 dreams of becoming the featherweight (65.7 kg) champion of the UFC. He is aware that the road is long, but with the work and sacrifices he is making, it won't take long.
The maturity he has gained in the United States promises a promising career within the world's largest mixed martial arts promoter.
written by: JAIME VALVERDE SOLIMANO (@jvalverdee)
Only a few know, but the year 2017 starts off in the best way...
In February, I had my first fight of the year against Vicente Vargas. I managed to come out victorious and won the FFC belt. The following month, I went to the United States to join team Oyama in California.
How did you get in contact with team Oyama?
In December 2016, during the fight I had with Vargas, I was motivated because I knew what was coming. In fact, few people knew I was leaving, I kept it under wraps.
What role did Marlon 'Chito' Vera play in your arrival at Oyama?
Marlon 'Chito' Vera was fundamental in this. At Oyama, they were looking for Latin American fighters, and I was on the list. They saw me fight and 'Chito' recommended me. They liked me and accepted me.
Have you had a relationship with 'Chito' for years?
Yes, he's a great guy. He has always supported me, asking about my career. He's a great guy, that's why things go well for him. He likes to help and lend a hand.
Once in the gym, how did you adapt to the pace of training?
Within a month and a half of your arrival, you had your first international fight in the United States...
Thanks to God, my training spoke for itself and I was able to get a fight in a short time. The coach trusted me and we got the victory by submission in the first round against a ranked opponent. This victory gave me more exposure.
To debut in the UFC, you had to drop a fight that you already had scheduled...
I was going to fight a Mexican in the Lux Fight League event in Mexico, but the opportunity with UFC came up and they understood. Every fighter aspires to reach this league and I couldn't pass it up.
How much did having a good manager help you to get into the UFC?
Having a good manager is important in this sport. This is a serious business and I have complete trust in him. He's a good person, he has shown me that. We have formed a great team.
Within your environment, what did they tell you and/or recommend before your debut in the UFC?
To stay calm and forget about everything around me, that I deserve to be where I am and to fight as I always do. 'Chito' told me: "Kick his ass" (laughs).
Having your lifelong coach (Juan Manuel Dias) in your corner played in your favor...
We have great chemistry. Having him by my side motivated me even more. We started this journey together and it will always be that way.
Do you expect to have a fight before the end of the year?
Definitely, people were left wanting to see more (laughs). Stay tuned because once again you will see me in the world's most famous octagon.
What does Humberto have to show in the UFC?
In all of my fights, I will knock out, it's the best thing one can do. I will give people what they ask for, and people like the strike. As for me, there will always be action.