Kron Gracie’s Bold Response to Critics of UFC 310 Main Card Matchup
Kron Gracie, the renowned jiu-jitsu ace, is making his highly anticipated UFC return after a 19-month hiatus, facing Bryce Mitchell at UFC 310. The matchup has caused a stir, with many questioning its placement on the main card. After a series of disappointing performances, including a lopsided loss to Charles Jourdain, Gracie’s return has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning whether he deserves such a high-profile spot. But Gracie is unfazed, delivering a response that is as sharp as his submission skills.
Gracie Fires Back at Pay-Per-View Critics
Despite the backlash, Gracie doesn’t mince words when addressing the complaints. “I think it’s funny because the people always have something to say,” Gracie told MMA Fighting. “And it’s interesting that people who would complain about something like that are probably the people who are not even paying for the pay-per-view; they’re streaming it for free.” He blasts the armchair critics, pointing out that they are the very ones who don’t contribute to the UFC’s business yet feel entitled to dictate fight placements. For Gracie, the placement of his fight is irrelevant, as he’s focused on showing his skills once again. “The sooner, the better,” he said, clearly ready to get back to business.
Gracie’s Confident Outlook: It’s All Business
Gracie, the son of legendary jiu-jitsu master Rickson Gracie, knows the game. He acknowledges that UFC matchmakers are experts at creating compelling matchups, and while the critics whine, the business moves forward. “Obviously the UFC knows what they’re doing,” he asserts. “So no one does it better than them.” He further deflects the criticism by pointing out that Bryce Mitchell is a significant name in the sport. The pairing, according to Gracie, makes perfect sense for a high-stakes bout. It’s not about spite; it’s about making the best business decisions, and Gracie believes that Mitchell’s inclusion on the main card adds value to the event.
Looking Back: Gracie’s Toughest Lesson
After his disappointing loss to Jourdain, Gracie made a public apology, explaining that he didn’t throw a single punch during the fight—a decision influenced by bad advice. He expressed regret, admitting that his self-imposed restraint was an error, one that he immediately recognized after the fight. “I’ve always fought; I’ve always been kind of my [own] head coach,” he admits. “This was kind of not my decision to make, and I paid the price.” Gracie has learned from the experience and is determined to return to the fighting style that brought him success, emphasizing that UFC 310 is his chance to show fans what he’s truly capable of.
The Fight Business: Expect the Unexpected
Gracie isn’t just preparing for Mitchell; he’s preparing for the unpredictable. In an arena where brutal knockouts and sudden twists are the norm, Gracie stays grounded in the harsh reality of the fight game. He acknowledges the danger and uncertainty that comes with the sport, especially after Mitchell’s terrifying knockout loss to Josh Emmett. “This is the fight business; you can be ready to expect anything,” Gracie says with a steely resolve. But despite Mitchell’s dangerous knockout power, Gracie is confident in his preparation. “Bryce is a tough opponent,” he notes, recognizing the challenge that lies ahead.
A Perfect Storm of Grappling and Grit
The matchup between Gracie and Mitchell promises to be an explosive clash of styles. With Mitchell’s formidable grappling and Gracie’s elite submission skills, this is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. Gracie, who has faced more striking-focused fighters in the past, sees this as an exciting challenge. “It could be a different fight than the striking guys that I’ve been fighting,” he says, knowing that Mitchell’s grappling style will force him to adapt. The fight is set to be a showcase of two top-tier competitors, both hungry for victory and redemption.
In the face of criticism, Kron Gracie is undeterred. Whether you agree with his placement on the UFC 310 main card or not, one thing is certain: the Brazilian jiu-jitsu prodigy is coming to fight—and he’s ready to silence his doubters.