Jose Delgado sent shockwaves throughout the MMA community when he landed a perfectly timed knee on Week 1 of Season 8 of Dana White’s Contender Series, knocking out his opponent in emphatic fashion in the second round, and earning a highly coveted UFC contract as a result.
Delgado (8-1) finds comfort in the striking realm, though he continues to hone his skills daily and enhance his overall game as he anxiously awaits his UFC debut.
“Everyday I wake up and I’m like ‘my next fight is going to be my UFC debut.’ Oh **** brother, I’ve been waiting for that moment,” Delgado said. “I’m doing everything in my power to make sure that my rate of improvement is as high as it can possibly be…I want to make a statement in my UFC debut.”
Delgado grew up in Yuma, Arizona, where he began his training at a young age. The Mexican featherweight had his sights set on becoming a professional fighter for as long as he can remember, and eventually made the decision to move up north and train at The MMA Lab in Glendale in hopes of furthering his career and reaching the UFC.
Back in Yuma, Delgado’s family and friends hosted a watch party for his Contender Series fight. Following the fight, Delgado was overjoyed to see his loved ones burst into celebration as they watched him secure the KO victory and achieve his lifelong dream.
“UFC is just another level man. It was cool to see all the people I love in this world immensely proud of the work I’ve done, and it was cool to share that moment with them man…such a special feeling that words truly can’t describe,” Delgado said.
In addition to his family’s support, Delgado credits many teammates for helping him get to this point, including Marcus McGhee, Mario Bautista, David Michaud, Mike Hamel, and Benson Henderson. It takes a village, and Delgado is eternally grateful to be surrounded by many highly-skilled fighters and coaches.
As he looks forward to his UFC debut, Delgado reflected on the legacy he intends to leave behind when his career is all said and done.
“I want to be remembered for how much I care about what I do,” Delgado said. “I put so much thought into my craft and I want that to be seen.
It’ll be interesting to follow along and see how Jose Delgado’s UFC career plays out. Many things are uncertain in this mixed-martial arts game, but one thing is for sure:
If Delgado continues to put forth performances like he did on Dana White’s Contender Series, he will be around for years to come. And who knows – Jose Delgado might just become a household name one day.
