At the age of 29, bantamweight Luan
Lacerda is the newest representative of Brazil in the UFC.
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The Macapa, Brazil-born Nova Uniao representative will make his
Octagon debut against Cody
Stamann at UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro on Jan. 21, the fighter
confirmed to the site Psicoticos por Vale Tudo.
The path to the UFC, however, was not easy. Born in Amapa,
Luan started training jiu-jitsu at the age of 12. During this same
period his father took him to a Vale Tudo/MMA event, where the
fighter fell in love with the sport for good. From that day on he
already knew he wanted to fight.
Lacerda is currently the Shoot Brazil bantmaweight champion and
owns a 12-1 career record since making his professional debut in
2012. In his last appearance, Lacerda submitted Marcirley
Alvis da Silva at LFA 132 this past May.
Currently living in Rio de Janeiro, where he trains under the
command of master Andre “Dedé” Pederneiras, Luan commented on his
process of moving from Macapá, the capital of Amapá, and
highlighted the positive reception he has received.
“It was a smooth process, because I’m calm about everything. I felt
very welcome by Dedé, who is a great man and teacher,” Lacerda
said. “He is very observant, says little. When he speaks, it is to
guide someone, a position, a struggle situation. We have a very
professional and cool connection, as it is with my physical trainer
Aleksandro Ferreira.”