Renan
Ferreira’s first PFL season will forever be remembered for the
controversial ending to his debut bout against heavyweight legend
Fabricio
Werdum.
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Ferreira appeared to tap to an triangle choke early in the bout,
but when the gesture wasn’t noticed by Keith
Peterson, “Problema” took advantage and pounded Werdum out for
what appeared to be a technical knockout victory. However,
following review by the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board,
the result was
overturned to a no contest.
That, despite two subsequent victories in PFL competition,
ultimately kept Ferreira out of the playoffs. Werdum, meanwhile,
withdrew from the tournament and appeared to be leaning toward
retirement until only recently, when he told multiple outlets that
he hopes to fight again for the PFL. If that does prove to be the
case, Ferreira would be more than willing to stand across the cage
from “Vai Cavalo” again.
“Absolutely. I’d love to get that one back again and make sure to
leave no doubt,” Ferreira said at a PFL media day. “Werdum’s a
great fighter, I’m a big fan of his, but now is my time.”
That rematch is only a hypothetical for now. Ferreira’s first order
of business is a regular season showdown with Jamelle
Jones at PFL 2 at Esports Stadium Arlington in Arlington,
Texas, on Thursday night. The striking-minded Ferreira is well
aware of what his opponent’s strategy will be.
“Jamelle’s a tough guy, tough opponent — heavy on the wrestling
department,” Ferreira said. “I trained a lot to be able to stuff
his takedowns and keep him from being able to implement his
game.”
The Team Nogueira representative expects to be an improved version
of the fighter that won two of three PFL appearances last
season.
“I’m here to fight against the best. I worked in all the
departments. I’m in a lot better shape than I was last season,”
Ferreira said.
The 6-foot-8 Ferreira presents a unique challenge to the rest of
the PFL heavyweight division because of his height and length. It’s
no surprise he admires a former UFC champion renowned for his reach
advantage.
“I’ve always been a fan of Jon Jones‘
work. He is a guy who uses his reach and height in a way that
inspires me,” Ferreira said. “I always looked up to ‘Big Nog’
[Antonio
Rodrigo Nogueira] too, I know him personally.
“…Big Nog give me the opportunity, he added. “He opened the doors
of his gym and offered me the opportunity to train with the big
guys.”
Last year’s heavyweight final was an entertaining, back-and-forth
clash between Bruno Henrique Capelozza and Ante Delija.
This year, Ferreira envisions himself in that position, and he is
willing to defeat whoever it takes to get there.
“I’m ready for anyone. I’m focused on this fight. I know there are
great fighters in the division, Bruno and Ante are among the best,
but I’m ready for anyone,” he said.