He's back.
UFC veteran Bongfeldt (22-7-1) is returning to competition after a seven-year absence, set to square off with Micah Brakefield (7-7) at Rumble in the Cage 61 Friday night in Lethbridge, Alta.
The 38-year-old fighter had stepped away from the sport after taking a demanding full-time position that left him with little time to train or recover properly. Now, Bongfeldt says he's finally found the balance needed to commit to three to four training sessions daily.
"I understood exactly what was required to reach that level, but scheduling conflicts and work obligations held me back," Bongfeldt shared during an interview.
"I feel solid and fully recovered from my training sessions now. I can handle more volume, and I believe I'm in good shape, so this feels like the right moment. Time to make it happen."
A native of Kenora, Ont., Bongfeldt has built a reputation throughout his career as a fighter who starts hot, boasting 13 first-round stoppages.
While he typically brings the intensity from the opening bell, Bongfeldt noted that he actually grows more comfortable as fights progress — and insists Brakefield is in trouble regardless of how many rounds elapse.
"My energy tends to increase as the fight continues. I rarely tire out; instead, I loosen up and find more fuel," he explained.
"The longer we go, the more advantageous it becomes for me."
In his 30-fight career, Bongfeldt has faced opponents of every style inside the octagon.
After studying Brakefield carefully, Bongfeldt believes he's pinpointed where he needs to be cautious and where he can press his advantages.
"Every one of his victories came by submission, and every loss came by TKO, so you can clearly identify his strengths and weaknesses," Bongfeldt noted.
"There are a few specific tactics I need to stay alert for, so I've been documenting them and ensuring I prepare for those situations."
Fast-Paced Brakefield
Brakefield believes there's one aspect Bongfeldt won't be able to match or prepare for — the relentless pace Brakefield brings into the cage.
At 30, Brakefield operates under the philosophy of throwing down a pace he himself couldn't sustain for three rounds, leaving him convinced this contest won't go the full distance.
"My game plan is always to establish a pace that no competitor on the planet can maintain for 15 minutes, then finish them within that window," Brakefield said in an interview.
"It's kill or be killed every time I step in."
When Rumble in the Cage's Lee Mein extended the fight offer to Brakefield, he accepted immediately.
He described it as an automatic decision to test himself against someone like Bongfeldt, who carries considerable recognition in the MMA world.
"Without hesitation, I wanted to face him. He's a well-known name," Brakefield said.
"Once the bout was confirmed, tons of people reached out telling me how legitimate an opponent he is."
Part of Bongfeldt's profile stems from his two-match tenure in the UFC.
Yet despite that pedigree, Brakefield — competing out of North Delta, B.C. — says the UFC experience doesn't phase him or add extra pressure.
"Many fighters I've faced could have competed in the UFC or will in the future, so I'm not particularly concerned about the UFC label," Brakefield said.
"It's just another organization he's fought in. Doesn't bother me."
Bongfeldt's Shoutouts
"I want to thank United Fighter Mixed Martial Arts, Roy Harris Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Bas Rutten Striking Systems, my home coaches, Cody Puls, Jordan Allen at United Fighter, and Chris Harper on the business side."
Brakefield's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank my coaches, Ken Tran and Nabil Salameh, at Titan MMA.
