Cafuringa, boxing coach, and Marcos Oliveira. Photo: Régis Rodrigues.
Boxing coach to MMA whizes like Fabricio Werdum, Edson Drago, Fábio Silva and the Brazilian Olympic boxing team, Paulo “Cafuringa” has been working the mitts with Marcos “Marcão” Oliveira since January 10, in preparing for the final of the ADFC GP against Russia’s Shamil Abdurahimov in the United Arab Emirates.
Marcos has spared no effort in putting together a top team of MMA trainers, of which Cafuringa is a key piece.
“The teacher leaves no room for slouching. He knows a lot, has a vision of boxing geared towards MMA like few do,” says the heavyweight.
Cafuringa, who accompanied Oliveira during the semifinal of the GP, explains in what areas the fighter has evolved: “Marcão is much quicker and more confident with his hands, he’s a much more complete fighter now and we feel he’ll be 100% on the day of the final.”
The event will take place March 11 at Sheik Zayed Sport City, the same location where the Jiu-Jitsu World Pro has been held for the last two years. The show also marks Bob Sapp’s return to the ring. Check out the card:
The ADFC Round 3
Friday, March 11, 2011
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
GP: Marcos Oliveira vs. Shamil Abdurahimov
Bob Sapp vs. Stav Economou
Nayeb Hezam vs. Shane Omer
Eduard Folayang vs. Lee Weiczorek
Titana Van Polanen vs. Outi Louhimo
Simeon Thorensen vs. Seydina Seck
Beslan Isaev vs. Valentino Petrescu
Aymen Ben Ali vs. Abbas Zahiri