“It’s night and day” - Brandon Vera on difference in backstage culture between ONE and UFC

Former ONE heavyweight world champion Brandon Vera is back in action this Saturday at ONE 164. ‘The Truth’ will look to get his career back on track after dropping his last two bouts by way of knockout. Standing in his way will be dangerous Greco-Roman world champion Amir Aliakbari.

Before Vera will make his way to the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, ‘The Truth’ spoke with The MMA Superfan about his upcoming return to the circle. During the conversation, Vera discussed ONE Championship’s backstage culture and how it compares to other major combat sports organizations.

“Man, it’s night and day. It’s so different, and I don’t wanna say it’s an American culture because it’s not. Regardless it’s a martial arts culture, it’s a mixed martial arts culture. But the way it’s been bred in the other organizations is fight-fight-fight-fight-fight. And you better do this, you better do that. You have to do this, you have to do that.”

Many ONE stars have commended the Asian-based organization for its respectful, even family-like atmosphere that has made it one of the most sought-after promotions to work with. In turn, that reputation brings the absolute best fighters to ONE, meaning better action and bigger finishes at every event.

Watch the full interview below:

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Brandon Vera predicts the ONE 164 main event between Joshua Pacio and Jarred Brooks

Brandon Vera’s return at ONE 164 this Saturday will be one of the many exciting highlights in the promotion’s final event of 2022. Of course, the biggest highlight will be the world championship main event featuring reigning ONE strawweight titleholder Joshua Pacio defending his crown against outspoken No.1-contender, Jarred Brooks.

Brandon Vera shared his prediction with The MMA Superfan, revealing that he was backing his fellow countryman, Joshua Pacio:

“Man, it’s Pacio, that’s passion right there. He’s gonna win, man. That kid’s in his prime. And he works so hard, man. His jiu-jitsu and his ground game are improving every time you see him. He gets back on the feet right away, if he can’t get a good position underneath or on top.”

ONE 164 will also feature the final of the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix as ‘The Kicking Machine’ Superlek Kiatmoo9 takes on a familiar foe in Panpayak Jitmuangnon.