Return to the Octagon

Lucas Almeida Seeks Redemption in High-Stakes UFC Rio Showdown

Lucas Almeida Returns to the Octagon in UFC Rio Main Event

Lucas Almeida, hailing from Sorocaba, is set to make his return to the octagon today at UFC Rio, hosted at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro. Competing in the featherweight division (up to 65 kg), he faces American fighter Michael Aswell. This bout is part of the main card of the world’s premier MMA event, headlined by a clash between Charles “do Bronxs” Oliveira and Mateusz Gamrot.

Almeida’s Formidable MMA Journey

Almeida aims to bounce back from his March defeat at UFC Vegas 103, where he lost to Danny Silva by judges’ decision. With a professional record boasting 15 wins and four losses, Almeida has achieved 14 victories via stoppage—nine by first-round knockout and five by submission. At 34, his martial arts career was shaped by a tumultuous past of street fighting.

“I was always very combative. I fought a lot on the streets, but martial arts transformed my life. I haven’t fought outside the ring since I started training,” Lucas explains. His love for the sport began in his youth while working at a family car wash near a gym. “I’ve always been intrigued by fighting, and then one day I realized there was a gym nearby. So, I pursued it,” he recalls.

Training and Evolution in Martial Arts

Lucas’s transition into martial arts was pivotal for his behavioral change. He’s now a vocal opponent of street fighting, considering himself a role model because of his commitment to martial arts. As a black belt in jiu-jitsu, muay thai, and kickboxing, Lucas also has eight years of boxing experience, complemented by training in wrestling and judo.

Representing Sorocaba, he has competed in events like the Jogos Abertos do Interior and has been part of the Liga Sorocabana de Kickboxing (LSKB) under coach Waldir de Mello Fernandes. According to Waldir, the training period leading up to the fight was crucial for Lucas to hone his skills.

• Focused on high kicks and powerful leg strikes
• Maintained strict diet and weight management
• Strengthened endurance and knockout potential

“He intensified his training, focusing on precise and potent strikes with the clear aim of securing a knockout,” notes Waldir. Despite the rigorous training regimen, Lucas managed his diet well, reaching the fight in peak condition. His determination towards achieving a knockout victory is palpable.

Opponent’s Profile and Past Challenges

Facing Lucas is 24-year-old Michael Aswell, with ten wins and three losses, including five knockouts from another organization. Aswell is seeking redemption after a loss in his UFC debut against Bolaji Oki in May.

This marks the fourth attempt for Lucas to fight on a card headlined by Charles Oliveira. Previous matches were canceled due to various reasons, but Lucas remains optimistic for a successful bout this time.

“I am confident it will go through. I’ve always admired Charles ‘do Bronxs,’ and we’ve even spoken a bit. I’m thrilled,” Lucas shares. UFC Rio is more than just a chance for redemption; it’s a symbolic moment for the athlete, providing an opportunity to fight on home soil. “Fighting in Brazil feels monumental. I prayed for this, and I got it,” he affirms. Lucas promises a performance unlike any other, urging fans to expect something extraordinary.

UFC Rio Full Fight Card