Gregory Rodrigues says ‘body just wasn’t responding’

Gregory Rodrigues believes his weight cut played a factor in his UFC Fight Night 251 loss.

This past Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Rodrigues (16-6 MMA, 7-3 UFC) was finished by Jared Cannonier (18-8 MMA, 11-8 UFC) in Round 4 of their main event. Rodrigues dropped Cannonier twice in Round 1, but appeared to fatigue as the rounds went on.

Rodrigues revealed that the cut down to 185 pounds hampered his performance.

“It’s my birthday today, and even though it was a tough day at work, I’m grateful for everything God has done and continues to do in my life,” Rodrigues said in a statement on Instagram. “Big thanks to the @ufc team for the opportunity. I’m truly honored to have shared the octagon with the No. 7 in the division. Cannonier is a highly experienced fighter who taught me a lot in this fight! I saw several details that can be improved, things that will be changed. Winning Fight of the Night was a gift for two warriors who weren’t afraid to go to battle.

“Most people don’t know this, but I had serious issues on my recovery after weight cut. My body just wasn’t responding. I keep wondering how things would’ve played out if I had been at 100 percent. But no sad stories here. Robocop never dies! Time to recharge, reset the system, and upgrade, because I’m just getting started! Huge thanks for all the love, to my friends and family who always stand by my side, and to my real fans, you guys outshine the haters every time! Much love to my coaches at @killcliff_fc, my strength team @ihpfit, and my doctors & nutritionist @marceloferronutricao! Thank you all.”

Rodrigues saw his three-fight winning streak snapped in what was his first-career five-round bout against former title challenger Cannonier.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 251.