Khalil Rountree continues to deal with his UFC 307 defeat with class.
Though Rountree (13-6 MMA, 9-6 UFC) gave an interview within the cage Saturday at Delta Middle in Salt Lake Metropolis, as he almost bled throughout commentator Joe Rogan, he didn’t put up something on social media till Sunday.
In a prolonged written assertion, Rountree thanked Alex Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC) for the extreme back-and-forth battle their shared collectively and indicated he found rather a lot about himself over the course of the struggle.
“I didn’t win the title however I grew final night time,” Rountree wrote on Instagram. “@alexpoatanpereira thanks for serving to me see that I’m able to tackle the world. You confirmed superb talent, you introduced out a model of me that I wanted to expertise. You’re the champ for a purpose, a lot respect. However I now know what I’m able to.”
Rountree misplaced his first UFC title struggle by fourth-round TKO, however had robust moments within the first two rounds regardless of his standing as a heavy betting underdog. He was praised throughout social media by followers for his coronary heart, braveness and moments of success within the struggle.
“#saltlakecity you guys have been superb and gave me such a memorable expertise,” Rountree continued. “I respect all the constructive messages from everybody around the globe. @danawhite @espn @espnmma and the whole @ufc employees, thanks for giving me a house, a spot to have function and offering me with challenges to beat. Massive due to my spouse @miakang, my household (Donny, Dave, P, all of my uncles and aunts, The Pavlica’s, the Ramseys, Everybody) on your unconditional help. Brazil 🇧🇷 you guys have a powerful champion, be proud.
“I’ll take time to heal from this, I’ll be again even higher, it’s inevitable. I’m grateful. By no means hand over on your self, at all times struggle onerous, uplift your communities and discover methods to take advantage of out of life. @deltacenter thanks for internet hosting us. #ufc307 was an evening to recollect.”
Rountree, 34, had received 5 fights in a row to earn his title shot. Given the harm (a few of it very seen) sustained Saturday, it’s unclear when he’ll return. Each time he does, Rountree will virtually actually achieve this with a following.
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