Alberto Uda Discusses Overcoming a Motorcycle Accident to Make His UFC Debut

MMAjunkie recently spoke to MMA fighter Alberto Uda, who makes his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 88 against Jake Collier. The fight card airs later today on FS1. Below are some highlights.

Uda on being bedridden from a motorcycle accident: “Due to a motorcycle accident, I was bedridden for a long time. I decided to start training jiu-jitsu after that. Soon, I also took up muay Thai. I’ve been training ever since.”

Uda on his struggles to become a fighter: “In my own country, it’s challenging. Here, we start becoming athletes at a later age. Here, there isn’t much incentive. We do it because we enjoy it. It’s harder to be an athlete in Brazil. The country offers no incentives. I’ve never had any. I’ve always done it on my own.”

On the fighters he’s faced: “Every fighter I’ve faced has added to my experience level. It all added up to a ticket into the UFC. It’s the best organization in the world, and it’s where everyone wants to be eventually.”

Uda on being thankful to the UFC and the fans: “(The UFC is) giving me a chance to show my work and represent both my city and country. There are already (many) Brazilian fighters in the UFC. I mirror myself on them. Many of us had to go through the same challenges. I’m glad I’ve stayed healthy to make it this far. I’m also thankful to the American fans for welcoming me into their home.”