Manny Fernandez has one goal on his mind.
Following a loss to Dario Sinagoga in his latest bout for the BFL interim amateur welterweight championship, Vancouver's Fernandez (3-2) gets another shot at success this Saturday when he meets Powell River's Nicolas Ouellet (1-0) in pursuit of the BFL amateur lightweight title at BFL 61.
Having previously fallen short of capturing the belt, Fernandez, 28, said having another opportunity to win gold so quickly carries a great deal of meaning.
"This means everything right now; this is exactly what I've been preparing for," Fernandez said.
"It's taken up a major part of my life lately, so it means a lot."
Fernandez brings five amateur bouts to his record, compared to Ouellet's single appearance.
The experienced fighter feels his extra time in the cage will be a decisive factor.
"Things change once you step inside. All your conditioning and training fade away under those stadium lights," Fernandez noted.
"I've got experience fighting beneath those lights, and that's something that will serve me well in taking this contest."
Even though Ouellet's record shows just one victory, that debut ended with a first-round submission against highly regarded Matt Lepper—an opponent who was also responsible for one of Fernandez's defeats.
Despite his opponent's modest 1-0 mark, Fernandez expressed genuine admiration for Ouellet following that opening-night triumph, anticipating a formidable challenge ahead.
"I genuinely respect his abilities. I watched his bout and he appeared very capable for a first MMA outing," Fernandez remarked.
"I'm looking forward to getting the best of him—a solid striker, a solid grappler—and I hope we can deliver an exciting match."
Jiu-Jitsu Specialist
Though Ouellet has competed in just one MMA bout, the 22-year-old boasts extensive background in jiu-jitsu competition.
Beyond his competitive career, Ouellet serves as a lead coach at Powell River BJJ, and he believes his deep roots in grappling could tilt this matchup in his favor.
"I recognize he has plenty of MMA experience, but regarding jiu-jitsu, I believe I hold the advantage both on top and on bottom," Ouellet explained.
"I've dedicated years to this art, and I expect this to come down to pure willpower in the cage—we'll find out who prevails."
That lone victory over a quality opponent was enough to secure Ouellet a title opportunity.
He admitted surprise at receiving such an offer so quickly after his debut, but embraced the chance eagerly.
"I was genuinely taken aback, though I knew defeating Lepper was a major accomplishment that would push me into contention," Ouellet said.
"When they approached me with the title opportunity, turning it down wasn't an option. I was surprised, but mostly thrilled. I'm fully prepared."
Since beginning his journey in combat sports, Ouellet has harbored a lifelong ambition to capture a championship belt.
Walking away with the gold on Saturday would represent everything to him, yet he sees it merely as a starting point.
"It would mean the universe to me. This has been a childhood dream," Ouellet shared.
"It marks only the beginning. I have grander ambitions in MMA, and this is merely a stepping stone."
Fernandez's Shoutouts
"I'd like to extend my gratitude to my team: Tristan Connelly, Achilles Estremadura, Adam Ryan, and everyone at Checkmat." Follow Fernandez on social media: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
Ouellet's Shoutouts
"I want to thank my entire Powell River BJJ crew, everyone in my training camp, my brother Nelson Spreeuw, my girlfriend Deidra, my parents, and the whole Powell River community." Follow Ouellet on social media: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
