Former bantamweight champion SALUTES Alexander Volkanovski for opening conversation about ‘Mental Health’

MMA often sidelines mental health. Athletes, in their physical prime, usually try to work out their mental issues through physical training. This has caused countless unfortunate events in the MMA world. Cody Garbrandt frankly spoke up about his mental health and thanked Alexander Volkanovski in a recent interview with ESPN MMA.

Garbrandt’s remarks during the interview praised Alexander Volkanovski for starting a discussion about mental health. This acknowledgment demonstrates the MMA community’s growing understanding of the importance of mental health concerns and the necessity for open discourse to de-stigmatize these issues. This is what he had to say:

I salute Volk for speaking out about that [mental health]. More athletes need to be outspoken about what they are going through.

Cody Garbrand via ESPN MMA YT

Garbrandt’s victory at UFC 296 against Brian Kelleher was a joyful comeback to the winner’s circle. It also was a moment for him to reflect on the toll the sport has had on his mental health. The fighter, known for his toughness and aggressive fighting style, took the initiative to recognize the significance of mental health in the often harsh and high-pressure world of MMA.

As the conversation about mental health in sports evolves, fighters like Cody Garbrandt play an important part in cultivating a supportive environment within the MMA ecosystem. Garbrandt thanked Alexander Volkanovski for emphasizing fighter brotherhood and signifying a good transition in combat sports culture. Fight fans continue to be more sympathetic and understanding about the often demanding world of professional fighting.

Cody Garbrandt is not interested in a rematch with Dominick Cruz

Cody Garbrandt has flatly ruled out a rematch with Dominick Cruz, noting that the topic has little to no interest for him. Despite the potential excitement among fans, Garbrandt voiced reservations about rematching Dominick Cruz, whom he defeated to win the UFC bantamweight title in 2016, marking an important turning point in his career.

Garbrandt stated in an interview with ESPN MMA that the fight does not captivate him. He emphasized the difficulty of improving on his debut performance against Cruz. This is what he stated:

Honestly, that fight doesn’t interest me. What else am I supposed to do with the guy? I mean, go in and knock him out this time? That’s the only thing that would go put a statement or top that. It’s so hard to top that performance.

Cody Garbrandt via ESPN MMA

Garbrandt’s victory against Dominick Cruz in 2016 catapulted him to the top of the bantamweight category, raising hopes for his future in the UFC. However, in the years after, Garbrandt has faced several hurdles. These include losing the title and going through a 1-5 win-loss in the UFC.

In case you missed it:

• “Throw him on prelims” – Manel Kape throws shade at Israel Adesanya’s teammate over a spot on the historic UFC 300 card
• “Easy to get elected when…” UFC champ Sean Strickland makes CONTROVERSIAL statement on how the Democratic Party win elections

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW