LAS VEGAS – Middleweight contender Brunno Ferreira is aiming to build a statement at UFC 326 on March 7, not just with a victory over Gregory Rodrigues in a rematch of their 2023 bout, but also by putting a recent setback firmly in the past. Ferreira, who burst onto the UFC scene with a stunning knockout of Rodrigues at UFC 283, struggled to make weight for his subsequent fight against Marvin Vettori, a misstep he attributes to an ill-advised attempt to significantly increase his muscle mass.
The highly anticipated rematch offers Ferreira a chance to reassert himself in the middleweight division and climb the rankings. While a win over Rodrigues won’t erase the disappointment of missing weight, it will send a clear message to the rest of the 185-pound contenders. Ferreira’s journey to UFC 326 has been marked by a recalibration of his approach to weight management and a renewed focus on his core strengths, aiming to prove that the issues experienced prior to the Vettori fight are now resolved.
Weight Cut Struggles and a Return to Form
Ferreira’s issues began after a successful debut against Rodrigues, where he secured a first-round knockout. He explained that in 2025, he attempted to add significant muscle mass to enhance his strength and power. “I went in with the mindset like, ‘I need to be heavier and stronger,’” Ferreira said. “And we followed a protocol my body never adapted to.” This led to difficulties making weight at UFC 313 and UFC 319, culminating in a failure to hit the 185-pound limit before his fight with Vettori. He ultimately weighed in at 189 pounds.
“That bothered me a lot given that I’ve always been an athlete who doesn’t abandon loose ends,” Ferreira stated. He revealed that his typical training weight is around 205 pounds, and attempting to cut down from 216 pounds proved unsustainable. Ferreira has since adjusted his approach, returning to a weight management strategy that better suits his body. He now feels “much lighter and healthier,” and is confident he has corrected the issues that plagued his previous weight cut.
Rematch Focus: Respect, Not Revenge
Despite the history between the two fighters, Ferreira is approaching the rematch with a level head. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the present and not getting caught up in a desire for revenge. “Pride is something that hurts you,” Ferreira said. “This revenge feeling doesn’t help. Forget that. If you go in with that mindset, it gets in the way.” He believes Rodrigues may have underestimated him in their first encounter, a mistake Ferreira intends to capitalize on again.
Ferreira also acknowledged Rodrigues’ recent success, noting that he has won five of his last six fights, including victories over Jack Hermansson and Roman Kopylov. Their first fight ended with a devastating left hand from Ferreira at UFC 283, a result that propelled him into the UFC spotlight. He expects Rodrigues to come prepared, but believes his own evolution as a fighter will give him the edge.
Looking Ahead: Title Aspirations
Ferreira has his sights set on climbing the middleweight rankings and challenging for the title. He initially hoped a win at UFC 326 would position him for a fight against former champion Robert Whittaker or Jared Cannonier, whom he referred to as “gatekeepers of the top 10.” Although, with Whittaker potentially moving up to light heavyweight, Ferreira remains open to any challenge. He aims to go 3-0 in 2026, solidifying his place among the division’s elite.
“Either [ranked fighters] will keep avoiding me, or they’ll have to accept it one way or another,” Ferreira said. “Let this fight be a message to those ahead of me. I’m looking at them. The targets are always the ones in front of us.” Ferreira’s performance at UFC 326 will undoubtedly be a key indicator of his trajectory in the middleweight division and his ability to fulfill his championship aspirations.
The stakes are high for both fighters as they prepare to collide once more. Ferreira’s ability to overcome his recent weight struggles and execute his game plan will be crucial to securing a victory and continuing his ascent in the UFC. Fans can expect a thrilling contest between two determined athletes vying for a significant step forward in their careers.
What do you believe? Can Brunno Ferreira rebound from his weight miss and defeat Gregory Rodrigues in their rematch? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow MMA fans!
