“I would love it” - Gustavo Balart says he would welcome a striking battle with fellow wrestler Jarred Brooks
Third-ranked ONE Championship strawweight MMA contender and former Cuban Olympic wrestler 'El Gladiador' Gustavo Balart is adept at all things wrestling. In fact, the 37-year-old from South Florida relies on his Olympic wrestling pedigree to dominate his opponents in the cage.
That being said, 'El Gladiador' says he will welcome a striking battle with upcoming opponent Jarred Brooks, and believes he has the advantage in the standup department.
Speaking to ONE Championship in a recent interview, Balart talked about wanting to stand and trade with 'The Monkey God' when they meet for the interim strawweight belt later this week.
'El Gladiador' said:
"I would love it. I love exchanging punches so if he wants to try, I am happy to oblige. I think my opponents can feel the pressure when they face me because I am a very aggressive fighter."
Balart has won his last four fights, taking out former champions Alex Silva and Yosuke Saruta, as well as perennial top five contender Hiroba Minowa. But in his next match, the American Top Team representative is taking on his biggest challenge yet in Brooks.
'El Gladiador' Gustavo Balart to face 'The Monkey God' Jarred Brooks for the gold at ONE Fight Night 24 on Prime Video
Former Cuban Olympian 'El Gladiador' Gustavo Balart is set to lock horns with former strawweight MMA king 'The Monkey God' Jarred Brooks in the main event of ONE Fight Night 24: Brooks vs. Balart on Prime Video.
The bout will be for the ONE interim strawweight MMA world title.
The event broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, August 2nd.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates on the event this fight week.