Photo: personal archive
“It’s the present I want, to give this guy a beating!” jokes the black belt.
Murilo will be fighting July 20 at Clube da Luta in Rio de Janeiro. His opponent, Japan’s Yuya Shirai, has a record of 20 wins and nine losses.
“He’s a well-rounded fighter. He kicks well, throws them a lot in his fights. I haven’t had access to too much about him, but he seems to me to be complete; I haven’t seen one aspect of his game that stands out from the rest. I think he’s a bit better on his feet, so I’m training a lot of blocks and counter-strikes,” Busta says in analysis.
Personal archive photo
At his last appearance, while having a good showing against Jesse Taylor, Bustamante ended up pulling out due to labyrinthitis. This time around he guarantees he’ll be 100%.
“I’m doing fine. I went to the doctor this week and had ran a number of tests and he cleared me to fight. I don’t feel any pain while training, so it’s alright. All that’s left to do is sign the contract, but I’m pretty sure the fight’s confirmed, and I’m ready,” says the veteran, shrugging off any possibility of this being his farewell fight.
“I still intend to fight another two or three times this year!” he asserts.
Getting ready alongside Murilo is Rousimar Toquinho. The fighter hasn’t yet appeared on the official UFC card, but Bustamante confirms everything is in place for Toquinho to see action in Rio.
“He signed the bout agreement and is in. Not long ago I asked why his name hasn’t appeared on the card yet, if there was some problem with his opponent (Alexandre “Cacareco”). They told me everything was in order for UFC Rio,” he says in closing.
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