Q&A: Antonio Azeredo

Fighter profile of Antonio Azeredo by

Every year the Island offers fighters a chance to prove they have what it takes to make it in the rough world of mixed martial artists. One of those competitors is 25-year-old Antonio “Hands of Stone” Azeredo, a boxer from Rio de Janeiro. He’s scored two victories thus far on the Island and hopes to keep adding wins to his record. He agreed to sit down and talk with The Tycoon Times and talk about his career.

Q. It’s unusual to see a Brazilian boxer in MMA. Why not Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

A. I have a lot of respect for BJJ practitioners and have a blue belt in it as well. I initially started out as a grappler but my trainers saw I had a much greater talent for striking, so they encouraged me to take up boxing. From that point on I’ve focused on knocking guys out instead of making them tap.

Q. Is there a boxer who you look up to a lot?

A. Ali was the best and he’s a personal hero. He was such a talented fighter but also had a warm and positive personality. I model myself a lot after him.

Q. You actually ended your first fight against John Braham with an armbar. Was that the plan?

A. I saw an opportunity and I took it. My preference is always to go out there and look for the KO, but on that occasion, John exposed himself and I would have been foolish to look the other way. It just goes to show that you can’t be too single-minded in this sport if you want to succeed.

Q. Your second fight went to a split decision, which you also won. Why no KOs yet?

A. It’s not for lack of trying, that’s for sure. In this game you can’t just be a good fighter. You have to be an exciting fighter. I wasn’t happy with my last performance and I will give the fans a more thrilling finish the next time around.

Q. You were injured in your last fight. How are you holding up?

A. I am mostly healed up now. I just need to take it easy for a few days, lay off the weights and the treadmill, and get back to 100%. I know it sounds crazy, but I can’t wait to get back into the cage. It’s what I thrive on.

Q. In your off-time, you run a gym for impoverished kids from Rio. How important is it to stay connected to your roots and remember where you come from?

A. It’s very important. Brazil is a great country and I love it very much, but we have some real problems with poverty and inequality. I consider myself blessed to be where I am now and I want to help give the next generation a helping hand so that those who have the intelligence and talent for fighting can channel it toward our sport and enrich both their lives and mixed martial arts.

Q. In the cage, you’re a no-nonsense guy who throws hard fists. What are you like the rest of the time?

A. It’s very hard for me to stay serious most of the time. Some guys are always mean-mugging and acting like they need to prove themselves. Not me. I like giving hugs.  I surround myself with positive people. I love fighting, but I don’t enjoy hurting people, if that makes sense. To me, the only life worth living is a thrilling life, and I want to get the most out of it by doing what I want to enjoy.

Q. You’ve been very vocal about wanting to marry the pop singer Shakira. Chances of that happening are pretty small. Are you going to give up?

A. No. I’m better looking than the current guy she’s with.

Q. Antonio, thanks for talking with us and good luck in your next fight. Is it going to end in a KO?

A. One way or the other, probably!

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