"One day at a time" - 'Buchecha' choosing to savor latest victory before deciding career's future
Marcus 'Buchecha' Almeida is in no rush to figure out what lies ahead of him following his first-round submission of Amir Aliakbari at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. 'Reug Reug' this past Friday, Nov. 8, inside the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. In an interview with the Bangkok Post, the 17-time BJJ world champion said:
"You know, we have to talk, and see what it is. But being honest with you, I live one day at a time, step by step. So I focused my whole life on Amir Aliakbari on this day today. After that, like I said, I'm gonna set my next goal. I don't come to do something with a plan at the back of my head. I live one day at a time. Life is now, that's what I do - think about today."
Almeida wisely allowed Aliakbari to be overconfident in his striking abilities, which allowed him to counter the Iranian's advances, and take him down. After securing the takedown, he made full use of his BJJ credentials, and sunk in a rear-naked choke. He received a $50,000 performance bonus from ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong for his efforts.
'Buchecha' takes both his wins and losses in strides
Marcus 'Buchecha' Almeida never lets the outcome of his bouts affect his mentality. Instead, he views them as critical components in shaping him into the fighter he is today.
In a YouTube video posted by Renzo Gracie Dubai, Almeida shared:
"So I'm really proud of my victories but I'm also proud of my defeats and losses because everything taught me everything, helping me get to where I am today. Without those setbacks, I never would be here and I would never be the 'Buchecha' that I am today."
Watch the entire video:
Fans in the United States and Canada with an active Prime Video subscription can rewatch ONE 169 on demand.