LAS VEGAS, NV — After being away from the Octagon for over a year, UFC lightweight Diego Ferreira is back to take on Michael Johnson at UFC Vegas 73 on Saturday night.
“It feels great. I bring this energy and it’s good to feel welcome here. It’s great to be back, especially (after) a year and a half. I love it. I love that energy now,” Ferreira told reporters on Wednesday.
Ferreira (17-5) was scheduled to face Drakkar Klose last July, but withdrew due to injury.
“July I had an injury, you know, I don’t know what to say. It was under my collarbone, my rib, a mild fracture. It took a good time to recover, but now I’m back and better than ever.”
“It took me that long to focus on myself.”
It wasn’t lost time, but it was definitely needed to recover. Ferreira focused on himself and took his time getting back into the cage.
“I took that time. I wasn’t in a rush to come back after the injury. I kind of like (took) a step back. One thing I’m back to compete in more Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It’s great[to be able to]envision what my goal will be ( from now),” he said.
In his first fight, he gets Johnson who, like him, has plenty of experience in the octagon. Johnson has a lot of weight in the names he’s fought against, and Ferreira gives his opponent all due respect.
“I’ve been watching Michael Johnson for a long time. This guy is dangerous (in) every aspect. Hands, or wrestling him, everything,” Ferreira said.
“I feel like this is my moment. I know he’s a tough guy, a great competitor, and that’s something I need to challenge. Especially in our division. You can’t really pick fights.”
Watch the entire Media Day with Diego Ferreira above. He faces Michael Johnson at UFC Vegas 73 on Saturday night.