Marcelo Garcia promises to continue legendary grappling career: “I just think this is not going to be my last one”

41-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu icon Marcelo Garcia is getting set to make his epic return to competition when he makes his ONE Championship debut early next year.

Garcia signed a deal with the world's largest martial arts organization not too long ago, and says it was one of the best things he could do with his career at this moment.

The Brazilian veteran is super excited for the possibilities in ONE Championship.

Garcia spoke to MMA journalist Ariel Helwani in a recent guest appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show:

"Obviously now I'm [with] ONE, and I'm exclusively fighting for ONE. But I know I have the freedom to go to IBJJF, Abu Dhabi, those tournaments, I believe. As long as there's no conflict with dates."

After his first match in ONE at ONE 170, Garcia promises fans he will have even more matches in the future. The Brazilian said:

"This is my first match back. I don't want to think too far ahead. I just think this is not going to be my last one. I'm not planning to do that because I miss that too much. It's been like 13 years since [last competed]. Realy, I have a very strong mind."

Fans won't have to wait long to see Garcia back in action.

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Marcelo Garcia draws Masakazu Imanari for ONE Championship debut at ONE 170

Brazilian grappling legend Marcelo Garcia will return against Japanese MMA icon Masakazu Imanari in his upcoming debut in ONE Championship.

The two lock horns at ONE 170: Tawanchai vs. Superbon II, which broadcasts live in Asia primetime from the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday, January 24, 2025.

Fans in the United States and Canada can check ONE Championship's official website for more information on how to watch. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event as it happens.