Ramos Ready for Showdown as He Represents Fighting Nerds in UFC APEX

SEATTLE, Wash. — Brazilian featherweight fighter Ramos prepares to make his entrance in the octagon this Saturday, representing his new team, Fighting Nerds. The matchup comes after his decision victory over Josh Culibao in August 2024.

Transitioning from California’s Team Alpha Male back to Brazil, Ramos explained his motivation: family. “I decided to make this transition because of my family, my daughter,” Ramos told MMA Fighting. He added that, although he spent considerable time in the United States, personal reasons warranted his return to Sao Paulo.

Ramos has maintained a positive relationship with his former coaches at Team Alpha Male, discussing his decision with them before relocating. He is now fully committed to his training at Fighting Nerds, although he still resides in Campinas, driving 120 miles daily for sessions. “I’m still experiencing it, but managed to do a good camp,” he said. “It was great to train with them. The energy is through the roof, and I enjoyed it a lot.”

His upcoming opponent, Mariscal, boasts a lengthy amateur career, turning professional in 2014 with a record of 13-6 prior to joining the UFC. Unbeaten in the octagon, Mariscal has claimed three decision victories in four bouts, suggesting that Saturday’s match promises excitement. “He’s a chaotic guy,” Ramos observed, cautioning that Mariscal’s aggressive style could force a brawl. “If you let that happen and turn it into chaos, he has good cardio. He’s more physical than anything else.”

Ramos has fought under the UFC banner with a current record of 8-5 and a total of three finishes. Despite a seven-month break from fighting due to injuries sustained from Culibao’s leg kicks, he remained active in jiu-jitsu. With a sharpened skill set, Ramos sees multiple potential pathways to victory. “I think the chances of a knockout are higher,” he noted, while acknowledging Mariscal’s impressive defensive jiu-jitsu. “He puts himself in a lot of bad spots, giving his back and fighting off his back. If I have an opportunity in one of those positions, I’ll go for it.”

The atmosphere in Las Vegas is charged as Ramos prepares to put his training and adjustments to the test. “Let’s go for another war with a new home. It’s going to be a tremendous victory,” he concluded, ready to face Mariscal.