Rodolfo Vieira, one of the best grapplers in jiu-jitsu history, has learned important lessons from his time in the UFC and is prepared to face the “very unpredictable” Cody Brundage at UFC Vegas 72.
Rodolfo Vieira is a highly accomplished grappler in jiu-jitsu, having won five world titles and an ADCC gold medal before transitioning to a full-time MMA career. Nearly four years in the UFC has taught Vieira many valuable lessons, including not to overlook any challengers. Vieira is set to face Cody Brundage on Saturday at UFC Vegas 72, a matchup originally scheduled for November 2022 but was postponed due to an injury to Vieira’s ribs. Reflecting on the incident, Vieira has since classified that particular grappling session as highly unnecessary.
Vieira’s 2021 loss to Anthony Hernandez at UFC 258, where he tapped out to a guillotine choke in the second round, also taught him important lessons. Brundage holds an 8-3 MMA record with three submission finishes, and Vieira is not underestimating his opponent’s grappling skills. Vieria said he prepared for Brundage’s style by training extensively in takedown defense, guard, and countering difficult scenarios, in order to avoid any surprises during their fight. He also added that his striking coach, Mano Santana, has analyzed Brundage’s standup game and prepared Vieira for any threats he may face.
Vieira characterizes Brundage as a “very unpredictable” athlete, stating, “I don’t think he’s great at anything, but he’s tough.” He respects Brundage as an opponent and is entering the fight with a serious mindset. “I’m taking this fight very seriously and I’m ready to come home with a submission, God willing,” Vieira said. He expects Brundage to avoid grappling in their bout, but remains prepared for anything. Vieira is eager to achieve his first win in almost two years, since his victory over Dustin Stoltzfus with a rear-naked choke in the third round, ideally submitting Brundage in under 10 minutes.
Though it feels like recent history to Vieira, the time since his last win has been a period of growth and learning. He acknowledges that the experiences he has had since then have made him a better fighter. Now more confident and mature, he is ready to give it his all in the upcoming fight, saying, “I can’t predict the result, I just want to go there and do my best and come out with the win.”