Two years later, UFC 206's Mitch Gagnon believes he can pick up right where he left off

It’s been almost two years to the day since UFC bantamweight Mitch Gagnon has stepped into the octagon. And while much is different, he believes much is also still the same.

“I think I’m just mentally where I was when I first got injured,” Gagnon told MMAjunkie Radio. “Although I came off a loss, I learned a lot from that loss. I’m just happy to be back healthy, and I can’t wait for Dec. 10. It was a great camp, and everything went well. I just can’t wait.”

Gagnon was last in action in December 2014, suffering a hard-fought decision loss to former champ Renan Barao at UFC Fight Night 58. After the fight, Gagnon discovered he tore his ACL, with surgery the only remedy. Unfortunately, complications during his recovery meant further procedures, and it would be nearly 18 months before he could train again at full speed.

But Gagnon insists the time wasn’t a complete loss. In his personal life, he welcomed a baby into the world. Professionally, he says he stayed focus ed on his career and continued to grow as a fighter.

“I’ve kept learning,” Gagnon said. “Even though I was on the shelf, I was still in the gym, still learning, and I think I’m a way better fighter.”

On Saturday, Gagnon (12-3 MMA, 4-2 UFC) meets Matthew Lopez (8-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) at UFC 206, which takes place at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre. The fights airs on the evening’s FS1-broadcast prelims prior to the pay-per-view main card.

Prior to his loss to Barao, Gagnon had put together four consecutive wins in the UFC’s bantamweight division. It’s the type of run he wants to start again right away now that he’s returning to the cage.

“I want to get back and fight in that to-10, where I think I belong,” Gagnon said. “I’m not looking past Matthew Lopez this weekend. He’s a scrappy kid, and he’s coming to fight, but I do believe I belong in that top-10.

“It’s just about putting a win streak together and getting back in that top-10.”

At 32 years old, Gagnon lost a few precious years but certainly has time left to achieve his professional goals. And while ring rust is a real concern following lengthy time away, a chance to rest and heal the body is always appreciated.

Put simply, it’s a fork in the road in Gagnon’s career. He believes he’s got the mental fortitude to make sure it all goes right from this moment on.

“I think I’m very mentally strong,” Gagnon said. “I don’t let a lot of little things get to me.

“I know my capabilities, and that’s my mindset in every fight. The guy in front of me is just my weight. Two fists just like me. Whoever’s gameplan works better that night will win.”

For more on UFC 206, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.

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