Patricio Freire shares mixed feelings with first UFC win, wants Aaron Pico next
NEW ORLEANS – Patricio Freire is conflicted over his first UFC victory.
The former Bellator champion stepped into the octagon for the second time at UFC 318 to face Dan Ige, and came out with a unanimous decision nod. Despite getting his first win under the UFC banner, Freire (37-8 MMA, 1-1 UFC) believes he could have done more to prove his skills against Ige (19-10 MMA, 11-9 UFC).
"I'm happy, but I know I can do better," Freire told MMA Junkie and other reporters at a post-fight news conference. "Much respect to my opponent. Dan Ige's a very tough guy. ... He's very good, but I'm better. I proved it today."
"Pitbull" made his UFC debut against former interim titleholder Yair Rodriguez at UFC 314, losing by unanimous decision. The scorecards were in his favor this time around, and while he was glad to get his hand raised, he wasn't satisfied with his performance.
"I'm not very happy now – because I know I can do better," Freire said. "I was with a little pressure on my shoulder. I came from a defeat. Of course, I lost the April fight against Yair. He's very good. He was a former champion, but I know I'm better than these guys."
Freire hopes to make a quick turnaround to face a fellow former Bellator competitor waiting to make his debut, Aaron Pico, who was scheduled to face Movsar Evloev at UFC on ABC 9 on July 26.
"He's ready, I'm ready," Freire said. "I cut my nose now, but two days, I'm good. ... He can make his debut in the UFC against me. Now I'm a (UFC) veteran."
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