Dive into the dynamic journey of UFC welterweight Vicente Luque in 2023, from overcoming setbacks to making a pivotal move to South Florida. Explore his evolution in the gym, the intriguing clash with former teammate Ian Machado Garry at UFC 296, and the challenges of navigating team dynamics in a welterweight powerhouse camp.
Vicente Luque's 2023 has been a rollercoaster. From recovering a knockout loss to Geoff Neal in 2022 to considering a monumental move, this year marked a turning point for the 32-year-old welterweight powerhouse.
Luque, after much contemplation, relocated his family to South Florida to train full-time at Kill Cliff FC. This shift, born from losses, extended sidelines, and a quest for improvement, wasn't without its challenges. Yet, the move to Florida has proven fruitful, with Luque finding support in unexpected places.
While settling in, Luque immersed himself in refining his skills. Known for his toughness and aggression, he decided to go beyond physicality, focusing on technique and skill. This evolution manifested in his August return against Rafael Dos Anjos, securing a unanimous decision victory.
The spotlight now turns to UFC 296, where Luque faces the undefeated Irish sensation Ian Machado Garry. What makes this bout intriguing is that they were once training partners at Kill Cliff FC. Teammates turned opponents, this matchup adds a unique layer to the welterweight drama.
The announcement raised eyebrows, considering the camaraderie at Kill Cliff FC. However, coach Henri Hooft allowed the bout, emphasizing the professional nature of the sport. Luque, embracing the challenge, emphasizes that, come fight night, respect remains intact.
Kill Cliff FC hosts not only Luque and Machado Garry but also Gilbert Burns and Shavkat Rakhmonov, making welterweight clashes almost inevitable. While certain teammates are off-limits, Luque acknowledges that, as a business, clashes might occur down the line.
Having been in Machado Garry's shoes, Luque knows the hunger and ambition. He plans to leverage his experience, putting the rising star in uncomfortable situations. UFC 296 becomes a stage for Luque to showcase his skills and cap off a challenging year with a statement win.
Luque views UFC 296 as an opportunity to conclude 2023 on a high note. With an eye on a significant 2024, he aims to demonstrate that he's still a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division.
Read the full story on Luque's Journey and UFC 296.