Mitch Raposo Wins at UFC 321, Says He ‘Faced Demons’ Before Breakthrough Victory

Mitch Raposo’s long-awaited breakthrough finally came under the bright lights of UFC 321 on Saturday night, as the former Contender Series standout secured his first UFC victory with a composed and gritty performance against Azat Maksum.

“The demons I had to face. I was so scared all week,” Raposo told reporters including Cageside Press at his post-fight scrum.

“I was contemplating like what am I gonna do if I lose this fight? What’s my backup plan? It seems like I can’t get it done. Now I got to fly across the world. Kid misses weight, almost a 4-to-1 underdog, and that wasn’t aggressive enough.”

Raposo (10-3) admitted the win didn’t come without internal battles, acknowledging that shaking off the pressure of his UFC debut stage was part of the challenge. Still, he viewed the performance as an important mental step forward — especially in terms of trusting himself in big moments.

“I just had to break through that barrier and I’m going to get better next time. I just has to get through this. Not aggressive enough, but definitely more aggressive than usual,” he said.

Despite the breakthrough win, Raposo revealed he didn’t leave the Octagon completely unscathed. He noted a minor injury he’ll need to address before making his return.

“My right hand’s a little banged up. When I rocked him I kind of landed with my thumb so I just want to get that healed up,” he said.

“Be active, get back in there whenever I can. I have a little suspension, but I’m going to get back in there soon as the UFC wants me. Shoutout to Mick Maynard for giving me another opportunity.”

Watch the entire post-fight scrum with Mitch Raposo above.

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