Greg Hardy Willing To Take Criticism While Pursuing UFC Dreams

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Greg Hardy said he’s willing to take criticism over his domestic violence past while trying to compete in the UFC. He picked up a win at Dana White’s Contender Series 9, with a TKO in less than a minute. Here are highlights:

On facing criticism: “If I was a genie, or if I was fortune teller, I’d play the lottery instead of fighting or instead of having a job. I don’t know how people are going to react, but I know – and a message to everybody – that I’m willing to go up against it every day of my life to prove that I am a human being, I have worth, I am willing to earn it – and that I’m an entertainer, and I’m one of the best in the world. I keep the fans happy, and I love them just as much as I love my family.”

On being built up by the UFC: “They’re going to build me up, and that’s how I’m going to get my shot. I’m all for it. Like I said before, I want to earn this, and it’s a perfect opportunity for me to come back, perfect my game, come out and show what I have to give. As many times as I have to do it, I’m willing to do it. I’m 1-0. That’s awesome, and it’s really cool. I worked hard. But at the same time, I’ve got five fights, and it’s something that needs to be earned.”

On training at American Top Team: “We’re talking about pros. We’re talking about some of the best in the business, some of the most dangerous men on the planet. It’s an honor and a pleasure to be in the gym with them, and that’s the reason that I’ve been able to move so fast and adapt so fast, just going up against guys of that caliber and having those guys actually teach me.”