Hi, MMAjunkie readers. Thank you for checking out the second installment of my weekly blog.
Unfortunately, as viewers of “The Ultimate Fighter” know, that night wasn’t my night and I suffered the first loss of my fighting career. And it sucks, to put it in very simple terms.
Anybody can make excuses — and that’s just not me — but that night wasn’t my night. I think I put on too much weight after my cut, something I’ve never really done before, and I was just tired. I’m not trying to give excuses for my poor performance, but provide some context as to why I didn’t live up to the expectations that all of my supporters, and of course myself, have for me when I enter the octagon.
Bottom line: That wasn’t my night, and I didn’t fight nearly as well as my family, friends, teammates and I know I can, and will.
I went undefeated through nine amateur bouts and four professional fights prior to being accepted to join “The Ultimate Fighter.” I hate losing more than anything. And to have my first loss on international TV, for the whole world to see, is heartbreaking.
That’s obviously not the outcome I was looking for. But I learned a lot from that loss and will of course continue to push forward as I climb the ladder.
The outpouring of support, ever since I was accepted to the show until last night, is very humbling and means the world to me.
Aside from the obvious disappointment and even heartbreak I felt that night, and reliving it on international TV, I loved how the first episode came out.
I think a lot of people don’t understand the intensity of our rivalry with the Blackzilians, which I got into in a bit of detail in the first installment of my blog. But the episode did an excellent job of providing a lot of context for the heat between the two academies and I think made a lot of people very excited for the rest of the season, and obviously the finale later this year.
I’ve been a fan of “The Ultimate Fighter” franchise for a long time. And although it’s devastating to watch myself fall short on the biggest stage of the sport, I assure you I can’t wait to watch the rest of the season on television.
I really appreciate all of the support I’ve received — it really does mean the world to me. But the best is yet to come — both this season and, of course, from my own fighting.
In recent years, the series has understandably had a bit of trouble producing a lot of elite-level talent. I’m not certain about my fellow castmembers — I can only speak for myself, of course — but I know I have what it takes to be the best fighter in the world, and I can’t wait to share my journey and experience with everyone, continuing Wednesday on FOX Sports 1.
Thank you again for your gracious support and taking the time to join me in my journey — it really does mean the world to me, and I truly value this opportunity MMAjunkie has given to me.
Michael Graves (4-0), an American Top Team fighter on “The Ultimate Fighter 21,” blogs about the season each week exclusively for MMAjunkie. Follow him on Twitter at @gravesmma.
* * * *
ATT and Blackzilian fighters discuss their rivalry:
view original article >>