Richie Santiago fights for a UFC contract on week 2 of Dana White’s Contender Series. It’s been a long journey for the young professional, yet only one performance stands between the Massachusetts fighter and an indiscriminate goal. Santiago spoke with MMASucka immediately following the announcement of his bout on the UFC affiliate show.
For Santiago, the success of his professional career was not mirrored in his start within the amateur ranks. As an amateur, he lost four of his first five bouts. This rough start included three consecutive losses. Once at the mark of 1-4, he no longer lost another amateur bout.