Combate Americas' Chris Avila: 'I ain't no sorry-ass CM Punk'

Featherweight Chris Avila might have his doubters, but he’s got no doubt in his abilities.

“I’m going to continue fighting,” Avila (5-4), who faces Ricardo Palacios (8-1) tonight at Combate Americas, told MMAjunkie. “I’ve been doing fighting a long time. I’m better than a lot of people out there, but a lot of people are just haters. I need those people too, so it’s all good. I ain’t no sorry-ass (Phil) ‘CM Punk’ Brooks or no fake (expletive) fighter.”

Combate Americas takes place at Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami, Fl. The card airs live on ESPN3.

Avila got a big pop from his longtime training partner, Nate Diaz, which led to an intense spotlight this past year. The momentum was deflated by Avila’s two straight decision losses, and the UFC released him from contract.

Some fighters might admit it was too much, too soon. But Avila doesn’t regret any of his experience in the big show.

“Nate would never vouch for me, because they’re real (expletive) fighters,” said Avila, referring to Diaz brothers Nate and Nick. “It was never a bad thing for him to do that, because I’m going to get my ass out there and I’m looking to back up his pop. I had some downfalls, but it’s a good thing.”

Avila plans on rebuilding himself in Combate by starching Palacios, who’s won his past five, including four under the promotional banner. Even with previous setbacks, he’s confident he can prove he’s worthy of his endorsement.

“I think I got some rounds in there,” Avila said of his UFC tenure. “I got six rounds of experience, and I’m going to take that with me and improve my game, start winning some fights, and maybe get back there somewhere. Make a star out of myself.”