SAO PAULO — Michal Oleksiejczuk, who was submitted by Caio Borralho with a rear-naked choke in April 2023, is now training with his former opponent. Borralho`s victory was one of seven UFC wins that propelled him to the top of the middleweight division. Now, two years later, Oleksiejczuk has traveled to Brazil to train with Borralho at Fighting Nerds, hoping to end his recent losses.
After losing his last three UFC fights against Michel Pereira, Kevin Holland, and Shara Magomedov, Oleksiejczuk`s UFC record has fallen to 7 wins, 7 losses, and one no-contest. Seeking a change, he contacted Borralho about training at Fighting Nerds in Sao Paulo. This move places him with a highly regarded MMA team as he prepares for his UFC 314 match against Sedriques Dumas in Miami this Saturday night.
“Some years ago, I fought Caio, and after the fight, Caio messaged me, and we became friends,” Oleksiejczuk explained. “I`ve been watching fighters from Fighting Nerds compete in the UFC. They have a very unique and effective striking style, which I think is great for me. I knew I needed to train at Fighting Nerds with Caio and the other fighters. My skills have already improved.”
Fighting Nerds, coached by Pablo Sucupira and Flavio Alvaro, was recognized as the best MMA team in 2024, following the successful UFC careers of Borralho, Jean Silva, Carlos Prates, and Mauricio Ruffy. Oleksiejczuk, a seasoned veteran entering his 30th professional MMA fight this Saturday, feels like a new fighter thanks to his training camp.
“I believe this is an excellent decision for me because Fighting Nerds has many fantastic fighters,” Oleksiejczuk stated. “I have numerous sparring partners who have helped me prepare, and now I am a more complete fighter. My jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and striking are all at a high level. I am ready for a great fight and a real battle.”
He added, “Fighting Nerds is a comprehensive MMA gym. They don’t focus on just wrestling, grappling, or striking; they train in all styles. The overall MMA level at Fighting Nerds is top-tier.”
Oleksiejczuk is set to face Dumas at UFC 314. Dumas, based in Florida, has a UFC record of three wins and two losses. In his last fight in August 2024, Dumas won against Denis Tiuliulin. Oleksiejczuk acknowledges Dumas`s skills and is preparing seriously.
“This fight is very important to me,” Oleksiejczuk said. “Sedriques Dumas is a great fighter. I am very excited for this fight. I am in the best condition and have the best skills of my career right now, and I’ve had the best preparation. I think this fight will be fantastic for the fans and everyone watching.”
Regarding Borralho, who defeated him in 2023 and has since achieved victories over Abus Magomedov, Paul Craig, and Jared Cannonier in just nine months, Oleksiejczuk believes Borralho is destined for UFC championship gold.
“I think Caio will be champion, maybe this year or next year,” Oleksiejczuk predicted. “Watching Caio spar and train here, I really believe he will be champion. He is a very intelligent fighter with excellent striking and is a complete MMA fighter.”
