WATCH: Fighter With Down Syndrome, Alvaro Borges, Grounds and Pounds UFC Heavyweight Jailton Almeida

A seldom but quite intriguing match-up took place over the weekend. UFC heavyweight prospect, Jailton Almeida made an appearance in the cage against a fighter with Down syndrome. This was not sanctioned as a professional bout but a charity one and it comes ahead of his fight against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 299. Interestingly, the fighter with Down syndrome, named Alvaro Borges, is an athlete himself.

As far as the fight went, Almeida was in a disadvantaged position as there was significant weight and size disparity. Yet, the outcome of the bout might shock you. So without further ado, let’s take a closer what happened when the two squared off.

Alvaro Borges vs. Jailton Almeida: A breakdown

Their fight was quite an interesting watch, to say the least, as neither of them resorted to taking a step back. Not to mention, they displayed their entire skill set of MMA; from striking to grappling. However, Almeida was obviously letting Borges get the better of him on purpose for the altruistic cause behind the event, to the extent that he let Borges get an arm bar alongside a win. Post the bout, the UFC heavyweight was glad to see the fighter with Down syndrome celebrating. On X., @mmamania shared snippets of their fight and stated, “Alvaro Borges, an athlete with Down syndrome defeated Jailton Almeida via decision tonight at Demo Fight 18″

Borges displayed sheer resilience, and his formidable mindset to be a fighter, notwithstanding any other circumstances, while ‘Malhadinho’ was being a good sport all around. Although, it bears mention that one will get to see Almeida in his full glory very soon.

What is next for Almeida?

The 32-year-old is on a meteoric rise in the UFC and rightfully so, given his impressive records and wins. However, he has a tough challenge ahead of him in the form of Curtis Blaydes. This fight will truly determine how well he does against a formidable opponent and a veteran like Blaydes. Moreover, alongside the MMA world, even the interim heavyweight champion will be watching this bout with a vested interest.

On X., a fan wrote to Tom Aspinall and said, “Get that Curtis blaydes fight back. Technically you lost but I know it bothers you that there’s an L on your record from him. Gotta get it back. If he beats almedia that’s the route to go,” to which he responded, “Winner of blaydes almeida sounds good.” Safe to say this fight might be on the cards in the future.

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Until then, we are curious to know, what you make of Almeida as a heavyweight fighter. Share with us your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.

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