"That could determine how this fight goes" - Gabriel Sousa says positioning will be key in Mikey Musumeci rematch

Gabriel Sousa is ready to go toe-to-toe with Mikey Musumeci regardless of what the BJJ savant and ONE world champion has in store for him.

The Brazilian has been impressed with 'Darth Rigatoni's' run to the ONE flyweight submission grappling world championship, but with a win over the latter in the books, he senses that advantage is on his side as they head into their rematch at ONE 167 on June 7 inside the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

Still, he isn't taking anything for granted, knowing that Musumeci will go to the world's end to ensure he pulls level in their rivalry.

During a chat with EL ESTUDIO DE LEO, the debuting megastar provided an insight into what he's doing differently against the Evolve MMA standout, particularly highlighting the importance of winning positions against the ever-tricky 'Darth Rigatoni.'

Gabriel Sousa shared:

"This camp has been focused on myself, improving different areas, back control, side control, controlling with the positions, and looking for submissions."

He continued:

"That could determine how this fight goes, you know."

Watch the full interview here:

Musumeci and Sousa's rematch at ONE 167 will be available live and for free in U.S. primetime to active Amazon Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.

Headlining the anticipated bill in ONE's return to the Impact Arena will be a ONE featherweight Muay Thai world title clash between defending king Tawanchai PK Saenchai and No.3-ranked contender Jo Nattawut.

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Gabriel Sousa says he's been yearning for a chance to compete in ONE Championship

Besides aiming for a second successive submission over Mikey Musumeci at ONE 167, Gabriel Sousa is fired up to prove that he belongs amongst the most elite ground game wizards on the ONE Championship roster.

Ever since the promotion made the discipline a permanent fixture in their numbered events and Fight Night cards, the Brazilian athlete admits that his sole focus was to receive a call to compete on the global stage someday.

He had this to say in an interview with the promotion:

"I knew that if one day I was part of ONE, I would have a professional structure and a better future within the sport. So, ever since ONE started the grappling division, I had a goal of joining the organization. I wanted to be a part of it."