Frankie Buenafuente returning to ROC stomping grounds after victory at Bellator
Photos by William McKee
Frankie Buenafuente (8-4) is the former Ring of Combat featherweight champion. Frankie lost his title to Julio Arce as well as in their rematch, nothing at all to be ashamed of. Arce is a legitimate world class fighter who earned his UFC contract after his two battles against Buenafuente and a spectacular knockout on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender series.
The “Praying Mantis” Buenafuente collected his thoughts, and got some well needed rest before signing on to fight Francis Healy at Bellator 186. For the previous two years, he had been taking fights every two or three months. He gave his body and his mind a chance to heal as his Bellator fight he came in on almost a 9 month layoff. It worked out well for him as he won a unanimous decision. Now, Frankie has had another six months off and is fresh and ready to go.
He’s lived the grind for a long time as he wrestled for all of his life and then made his transition to MMA. Between woking a full time career job, training and taking fights, there is not a lot of time for fun. I asked the former champ what he does for enjoyment with such a hectic schedule.
“Training and fighting is my fun. My team at Carnicella is like my family. We punch each other in the face every day and try to make each other better. They are there for me and I am there for them. I have a tremendous support system.”
LISTEN TO FRANKIE BUENAFUENTE BELOW:
It was nice to hear that Buenafuente enjoys what he does so much. People like Frankie are what makes the sport so great. He fights with passion and hard work to go along with his talent. He’s also a huge ticket seller and whenever you are at an event where he is performing, his fans will let you know it. They are loud and they are loyal.
At ROC 63 on June 8th, Buenafuente faces Mike Lawrence (5-3) who is coming off a highlight reel knockout with a vicious knee at ROC 61. The Tropicana Casino’s Showroom in Atlantic City, NJ will host another card stacked with the top regional talent on display. ROC is brought to you by Louis Neglia and Dead Serious Promotions. MyMMANews will be cageside for up to the minute results, photos and a full recap
