Gregory Rodrigues Eyes Top 10 Ranking After Cannonier Clash

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Brazilian middleweight Gregory Rodrigues aims to elevate his career with a landmark victory against seventh-ranked Jared Cannonier this weekend at UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Rodrigues. Scheduled as the main event, the fight marks Rodrigues’ 10th outing in the UFC and could propel him into the official middleweight rankings.

“I’m so excited for this fight,” Rodrigues said during a recent interview. “I think that’s payoff for the hard work I’ve done in my whole career to this moment. I’m so grateful, I can’t wait for it.”

Rodrigues enters the Octagon on the heels of a unanimous decision victory over Christian Leroy Duncan at UFC 304, which took place last July in Manchester, England. The bout was particularly meaningful for Rodrigues, who had previously cornered UFC veteran Vitor Belfort at UFC 204 in the same city. “Being in Manchester, I loved that place. I loved to fight there; the crowd was crazy!” Rodrigues recalled.

His win over Duncan extended his current streak to three victories, having previously defeated Brad Tavares and Denis Tiuliulin. “I knew Duncan was going to be a tough opponent, but that’s the kind of fight I’m looking for,” Rodrigues stated. “I take on challenges head-on, and I’m ready to show who I am.”

While Rodrigues sought to secure another fight in late 2024 to keep his momentum alive, matchmaking difficulties postponed those plans. However, he ultimately landed the opportunity to face Cannonier—an experienced veteran and former title challenger. Rodrigues expressed his anticipation: “When I heard about this fight against Jared Cannonier, man, that made me so excited. This fight means a lot to me. It shows how the UFC looks at me, giving me this kind of fight.”

Cannonier, who previously fought for the middleweight championship, experienced a setback last year after suffering two consecutive losses. However, he bounced back with victories over Sean Strickland and Marvin Vettori in 2023, before facing rising contenders Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho. With the stakes higher than ever, Cannonier is eager to reclaim his place among title contenders.

Rodrigues views this fight as a crucial moment in his career, especially as the middleweight division is rapidly evolving with the recent rise of undefeated champion Dricus Du Plessis. “I’ve seen the division change, change the generations,” Rodrigues said. “I’ll beat Jared Cannonier and I’m not going to wait long to fight again. It’s a great time for new stars to emerge, and I see myself as one of them.”

The anticipation is palpable as both fighters prepare to collide in Las Vegas. Rodrigues is determined to cement his legacy, while Cannonier looks to rejuvenate his career. Fans can expect an electrifying main event that showcases the skills and tenacity of both fighters, with the bout set to start at 7 p.m. ET at the UFC APEX.