Jenel Lausa aims to make most of ‘second chance’ in MMA return

MMA fighter Jenel Lausa. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Jenel Lausa will mark his return inside the MMA cage against Rahmatullah Yousufzai of Afghanistan in BRAVE CF 47: Asian Domination in Bahrain on March 11.

Lausa signed an exclusive multi-fight contract with BRAVE Combat Federation last month and his debut comes almost three years since his last MMA bout.

The Concepcion, Iloilo native is hoping to make quite a first impression in what he described as his “second chance” in MMA and climb his way up the talent-laden flyweight class in his comeback.

“I aim to win my debut fight and the next fights after that. I dream to continue winning and bounce back from the setbacks that I experienced,” he said. “Being in the MMA world once again puts a big smile on my face. I am grateful for the opportunity that BRAVE CF has given me.”

“I believe this my second chance to prove myself in the mixed martial arts industry. This is also a chance for me to substantiate that I have definitely learned from my shortcomings in my past MMA fights.”

The 32-year-old Lausa suffered three straight setbacks in the UFC before stepping away from the mixed martial arts scene and focused on his boxing career instead.

But bouncing back will be a tall order for Lausa, who is pitted against an undefeated prospect in Yousufzai.

Yousufzai is currently 4-0 with half of his wins by knockout.

“I have seen his fights and I have read articles about him. He is a good fighter,” Lausa said. “We are both strikers, so he will probably strike with me. But at the same time, I don’t want to underestimate his ground game, so I am also preparing for that aspect.”

“With a winning streak like that, of course, I will have to double my efforts. It definitely motivates me,” he added. “I am completely focused on doing whatever it takes to claim victory on March 11. It’s not going to be easy, but I am ready to give it my best.”