Leandro Ataides Hoping to Put on a Good Show at ONE Championship 50

Leandro Ataides spoke with MMAjunkie ahead of his fight with Mohamed Ali at ONE Championship 50. Some highlights are below:

On fighting in ONE Championship: “Asian fans enjoy seeing a warrior’s heart. I can also say that I fight because I love to do it. I’ve been able to show my heart in ONE, which is a very large promotion in Asia. Now that I’m more experienced, I have a lot more to show. They’ll see the lion in me.”

On his losses: “Losing is never good. I’ve been training hard since losing my first fight. “My second loss, to Aleksei Butorin, was very tough. He has very heavy hands. As far as my loss to Marcin Prachnio, we didn’t agree with the judges and are trying to overturn it. Whoever saw the fight knows I didn’t lose. It was a screw job. But I don’t get angry. I’m here to fight. That’s life. I’d like to change the decision loss to Marcin, or at least get a rematch against him.”

On his fight with Ali: “I didn’t have much information about my next opponent. Regardless, every opponent should be respected. Of course we both strategize, hoping for the best outcome. I know he’s a big guy, with good boxing, and heavy hands. He’s dropping down in weight. I’ll be ready. He has the same name as my own idol, Muhammad Ali. But once we step into the cage, only the better man will be left standing. Despite putting in a lot of time into my boxing with Jose Aldo’s coach Isidoro Nicolas, I’ll look to dominate with my jiu-jitsu, which is my best weapon.”

On fighting on his daughter’s birthday: “December 2nd is my daughter’s birthday. Also, about five months ago, I lost my older sister. I’m sure she’s looking down on me. And my son was just born on Sept. 28. So, this victory will be dedicated to my family, who’s always by my side.”

On his hope for the fight: “I hope to always put on a great show. I like the Philippines. Recently, an opportunity came up to teach there. I love Asia and its people. Who knows – maybe I’ll live there one day. Most fighters want to be in the UFC. My focus is to win at ONE, so I can be the best fighter in Asia, before setting my eyes elsewhere. I aim to be the champion at ONE.”