Junior Dos Santos was once considered one of the finest fighters in the UFC. For more than a decade, “Cigano” was one of the most recognizable faces in the UFC’s heavyweight class. Santos had a solid UFC career, defeating the likes of Cain Velasquez, Fabricio Werdum, and Frank Mir. ‘Cigano,’ also won the UFC heavyweight championship and was a standout performer for the organization.
Dos Santos left the UFC after four consecutive T/KO losses. These defeats were against Francis Ngannou, Curtis Blaydes, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and Ciryl Gane; the last of which, against Gane, ended his UFC career. While many speculated that he would go abroad to continue his MMA career, it appears like he has decided to pursue a career in AEW for the time being.
Last week, the former UFC heavyweight champion made his pro wrestling debut for All Elite Wrestling. The former UFC champion didn’t back down from the action, joining other AEW stars in the main event six-man tag team bout. Dos Santos made his debut alongside Dan Lambert, founder of American Top Team. MMA teammates Jorge Masvidal, Paige VanZant, and Austin Vanderford were involved as well.
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In a recent interview with ESPN MMA’s Marc Raimondi, Dos Santos spoke about his career transition and his time at the AEW. In the interview, he also mentioned his thoughts on his upcoming fight against fellow pro-wrestler Chris Jericho.
“I have a fight Friday. I’m gonna go there to beat Chris Jericho again. You know, Chris Jericho will never be the same again after that flying knee Masvidal got him with. that was an amazing one, and uh I’m feeling very excited right now. like I told you about Friday night, and let’s see what’s going to happen next” said Cigano.
READ MORE: VIDEO: Former UFC Heavyweight Junior dos Santos Makes a Thrilling Debut at AEW
Junior Dos Santos on considering a boxing career
Santos expressed interest in a boxing career in the same interview. He said, “Boxing would be, I think that the perfect way for me to go. I’m a boxing guy, everybody knows that. You know I never had an official professional boxing fight and, maybe this is the time. I’ve been having some good conversations. You know, I had some people coming to me with some offers. But of course, this next step of my career you know. I want to make sure I’m taking I’m doing it right.”
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Looking back on his MMA experience, Junior Dos Santos is a promising prospect for a boxing career. During his prime era, he was regarded as a top striker in the UFC and showcased some amazing boxing technique.