Even with Cain Velasquez set to return later tonight (Sun., Feb. 17, 2019) at UFC on ESPN 1 from Phoenix, Arizona, a lot of fight fans are anticipating the Octagon debut of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prodigy Kron Gracie.
As the son of the great Rickson Gracie and grandson of the legendary Helio Gracie, Kron carries a lot of weight wherever he goes, especially when it comes to hand-to-hand combat. So even though Gracie only has four professional fights under his belt, his UFC debut is one to anticipate.
Just ask UFC superstar Conor McGregor, who took time out of his busy schedule to not only show excitement for Kron’s crossover into the Octagon, but also pay respect to the Gracie family and their role in paving the way for today’s MMA. McGregor even mentioned the Diaz brothers, who have trained alongside Gracie for years.
Check out what “Notorious” had to say below:
Very excited to see Kron Gracie compete tomorrow in the UFC.
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) February 17, 2019
Son of Rickson, partner of Diaz.
So much lineage.
Very proud and exciting moment here for the prestigious Gracie family. Remember that without this family, none of us would have a job we loved.
Good luck and Respect.
“Very excited to see Kron Gracie compete tomorrow in the UFC,” wrote McGregor via Twitter. “Son of Rickson, partner of Diaz. So much lineage. Very proud and exciting moment here for the prestigious Gracie family. Remember that without this family, none of us would have a job we loved.
“Good luck and Respect.”
Not too shabby for Kron. The 30-year-old Gracie hasn’t even stepped foot inside of the Octagon and he’s already drawing praise from the most polarizing name in the sport today. We can only imagine what the feedback will be if Gracie is successful in his debut opposite featherweight veteran Alex Caceres, which will go down live on the ESPN main card.
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