John Castañeda Interview (2:20)
Kicking off this edition of TTP is our interview with UFC bantamweight, John Castañeda. Castañeda will be fighting next weekend at UFC Vegas 74 against Mateus Mendonça. He discusses that matchup and his opportunity to get one back against Team Chute Boxe. The style is similar, but he feels he has the recipe to turn the result around. He also discusses some obstacles he faced in his last fight and why he feels like he should be in better shape for this one. Also, he gives up the origin of the unique nickname Sexi Mexi. It invovles some college freshman weight gain and it’s sure to get you a laugh or two.
(Editor’s note: unfortunately, after taping, Castañeda’s opponent fell out of the fight. He’ll stay on the card against Murin Gafurov)
Combat Countdown: Top 5 Road to the UFC Prospects (20:36)
As a slight change of pace this week, we’ll be looking at some MMA outside of the UFC – but barely outside. We’re looking in at The Road to the UFC in Shanghai this weekend. Four different tournaments get kicking this weekend with UFC contracts on the line. Every men’s division from flyweight to lightweight is going to be in action. There are plenty of top Asian MMA prospects, and we’ll be counting down our five favorite in this year’s season. For this segment, all odds via FanDuel Sportsbook.
Mark Climaco Interview (26:33)
Closing out this edition of TTP is our interview with Road to the UFC flyweight, Mark Climaco. Climaco talks about the unique experience of fighting in a tournament and just how far he can look ahead. Plus, he shared his thoughts about being able to represent not just his country, but his heritage and his team as well. He also discusses travelling to the other side of the world to fight and how he’s dealt with it. And, of course, we’re breaking down his fight with Jung Hyun Lee.
