UFC Vegas 111: Chris Padilla Ready for Battle
Lightweight contender Chris Padilla (16-6) returns to action at UFC Vegas 111, where he will face Ismael Bonfim in a main card bout. After being sidelined since March despite having no injuries, Padilla is eager to step back into the octagon.
“Everything was fine on my side. It’s just, the powers that be had to do their job, and here I am to do my job. I’m very grateful for them, and here I am.”
Padilla emphasized that delays were never about him avoiding opponents. He brushed off suggestions that others might be avoiding him, though he hinted that anyone in his division will eventually need to face him.
“Everyone’s got to see me one day, again, just like today. If there is someone running, if I see your name come up, it’s time to eat.”
Coming off a split-decision victory over Jai Herbert—a bout in which he sustained a serious eye injury—Padilla feels that fight proved his toughness and readiness to endure any challenge. He believes his resilience defines him as a competitor.
“One of my mottos is ‘pain is power.’ And sometimes the Gods demand blood. It’s going to be mine or theirs. I think that’s a fair wager for the opportunity to be great.”
“If I have to pay in blood, I will, by any means man. The only way they’ll stop me is if they stop me.”
Author’s Summary
Chris Padilla returns at UFC Vegas 111 ready to prove his grit and determination, declaring he’s prepared to sacrifice everything in pursuit of greatness.