Gabriel Braga, a PFL featherweight finalist, continues to fight and honor his late father and mentor Diego Braga, striving for victory despite the emotional challenge of competing without him.
Fighting is no easy work. It’s gotten significantly harder for PFL featherweight Gabriel Braga since the death of his father and mentor, Diego Braga, in January.
Braga went from a PFL alternate to a 145-pound finalist in 2023. He fought for the first time without his father in the corner when he knocked out Justin Gonzales in the first round in April.
He returns to action Friday against Bubba Jenkins at PFL 6 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Admits he’s still trying to get used to the idea his father is not around.
“It wasn’t easy [at PFL 3], and it’s not being easy now,” Braga told MMA Fighting. “I’d be lying if I told you it’s easy.”
But he tries to stay positive. Tries to live life the best way possible, just as his father taught him.
“I try to bring with me the lessons and good memories,” he said. “That’s what gives me the strength to keep going and continue to represent him.”
Diego trained some of Brazil’s best, including UFC legend Anderson Silva. He competed 32 times as a professional MMA fighter.
Retired in 2019 on a six-fight winning streak after beating veteran Jamil Silveira. On that same night, his son improved to 4-0 in the sport.
“Everything I do in fighting is for him,” Gabriel said. “If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be even fighting.”
He feels grateful for the father and friend he had. “I’ll always be grateful,” he added.
Braga is close to clinching a playoff spot after securing six points for his first-round finish in April. But won’t enter the cage stressing over it.
The 26-year-old prospect expected to face Jenkins ever since joining PFL. “It’s time to beat him up now,” he declared.
“He’s a very experienced fighter who has fought for big promotions all over the world.” But Braga feels ready.
“I’m getting better every day, with a better mind and better body.” Ready to beat anyone that steps in front of him.
“I go in there looking to win no matter what and beat everybody up.” Simple as that.
“I don’t pay attention to points,” Braga said. Thinks it’s cool but won’t go too relaxed because of those six points already secured.
“I’ll go in there to break him and try to get another six points.” That’s his mindset—pure determination.
Wants to put on a show and bring home another victory. His goal? End this fight as fast as possible.