Cody Garbrandt on UFC Fight Night 188 Loss: ‘I Just Feel Like I Was Fighting Myself in There’

Cody Garbrandt has broken his silence following his loss to Rob Font in the UFC Fight Night 188 main event.

The former bantamweight champion released an emotional statement via Instagram live (via Current MMA) in which he appears to be almost in tears. Garbrandt was outstruck by Font, who landed the second-most significant strikes in a bantamweight fight in UFC history, over the course of five rounds en route to a unanimous decision defeat.

“Rob was the better man today,” Garbrandt said. “I just feel like I was fighting myself in there, battling myself, and I’m not taking anything away from him, congrats on his camp. First and foremost, thank God for keeping us both safe in there. A lot of positives come from this, brush it off, and get back with my coaches and teammates. We’re still striving to be the best and be the world champion. Sometimes there’s adversity that comes along in your dreams and makes you work harder, makes you realize what needs to be done, and makes it that much sweeter climbing up the mountain.

“I’m just really thankful. I wanted to come on here and just tell you guys how much I appreciate and love your support. It’s very appreciated. I’m trying to fight my heart out for you guys. Thank you.”

Garbrandt has lost four of his last five Octagon appearances, but Saturday marked his first defeat going the distance after being finished by T.J. Dillashaw (twice) and Pedro Munhoz. His only victory during that time was a second-round KO of Raphael Assuncao at UFC 250. The Team Alpha Male standout began his professional career with 11 straight triumphs en route to capturing the 135-pound belt.

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