Experience over milestones: Mario Pinto patient ahead of UFC London

Mario Pinto wants to play the long game when it comes to his UFC career.

Pinto, who is undefeated at 11-0, will take on Brazilian grappler Felipe Franco (9-1) at UFC London on March 21.

Despite securing two wins inside the UFC’s Octagon, both via finish, Pinto is adamant about gaining more experience before jumping into the rankings.

He said: “I don’t want to jump to the top 10. I would like to have two more fights before the top 10 – maybe even three.”

Initially, Pinto was scheduled to face Mick Parkin (10-1), who is No. 13 in the heavyweight rankings. A win over Parkin would have been a ticket to a number next to his name.

Now he is facing Franco, an unranked opponent making his UFC debut after failing to secure a win or contract on Dana White’s Contender Series.

To Pinto, however, growth and experience are the priority – not a ranking.

“Build a profile and get more cage time, deal with more problems, improve and learn new things. It’s a marathon in this game.”

In addition to his pursuit of minutes on the clock, Pinto will look to preserve his undefeated record, not only in the UFC but as a professional overall.

When asked about his gameplan for London, he told us he plans to deliver a measured yet violent heavyweight performance.

“I’m going to come out strong like always. Try to ‘swang and bang’ in the middle, heavyweight style. I’ll be a lot more focused, not with my chin in the air, but I’ll come out aggressive.”

The idea of grappling?

“Not even in my vocab,” he joked.

Pinto officially represents Portugal when fighting inside the Octagon; however, he lives and trains in London.

Nonetheless, fighting in London again after several years remains an exciting prospect.

“It feels good man, I’m excited. I haven’t fought there in four years. The last fight I had here (London) was with Fight Star Championship. I became 3-0 at Crystal Palace, now I’m fighting at the O2 – it’s crazy.”

Competing at home comes in stark contrast to his last fight, when he ventured all the way to Brazil to dispatch Jhonata Diniz in his own backyard.

Hopefully this outing will see the O2 give a warmer welcome to the UK-grown heavyweight.