By TXMMA Staff
Valdez seeking his third straight win opposite Gerzan Chaw at Texas City Throwdown
HOUSTON, TX, March 13, 2014 – When we think of 26 year old Houston-based fighter Eric Valdez the first word that comes to mind might just be “underrated.” He debuted as an amateur in July 2011 losing by unanimous decision. Since then he’s blossomed. Eric won his last two fights at the amateur level to finish with a 2-1 record and has since gone on to experience ever more success as a pro. He’s currently 3-1 and continuing to improve under the tutelage of Saul Soliz.
Many people overlooked Valdez at Legacy Fighting Championship 25. It was then that he took on Cyborguinho dos Santos, younger brother to MMA vet Evangelista Cyborg. With that pedigree on the forefront of most fans’ minds, it was Cyborguinho that people looked to as a potential future star. Yet it was Valdez who walked away with the first round knockout, certainly his most impressive win yet.
Eric Valdez will now return to the cage against this Friday night at Texas City Throwdown. He’ll take on six-fight veteran Gerzan Chaw in seek of his third straight win. With both men motivated headed into the bout it should be a good one. Read on to get Eric’s thoughts heading into the fight.
TXMMA Interview – Eric Valdez (Metro Fight Club)
Eric Valdez – It’s always a gratifying feeling to finish your opponent off in such a dominant fashion; and nothing’s better to finish your year off with a KO. That was a great experience.
TXMMA – That win was your second in a row and you’ve won 3 out of 4 as a pro to start off your career. How do you feel heading into your first fight of your second year?
Eric Valdez – I’m feeling very confident going in to 2014. I wish I could have finished 2013 with a 4-0 record but there’s no time to look back. I just got to stay focused on the future and this Friday night. I’ve been keeping a close eye on (Gerzan) Chaw and seen a few of his fights because my couch Saul Soliz has brought his name up a couple times. I knew our paths would cross one day. He seems very allusive on his feet and can be slick off his back. Definitely a strong opponent.
TXMMA – How would you compare his strengths and weaknesses versus yours?
Eric Valdez – I would say his strength is on his feet. His Karate-based style is unique and he’s good at keeping his distance but I see he does like closing the distance sometimes and grappling too. I don’t think he’s wants to do that with me. Either way I feel he favors standing more but I’m sure I’m not in too much danger.
Eric Valdez – I’m focused man. Very focused so I can start this year off good and pick up where I left off from last year.
TXMMA – You seem like the bigger stronger guy in this fight. Do you think that will play a factor?
I’m happy you think so because it plays a huge factor for me and where I’m able to dominate every aspect of the fight whether it’s standing or on the ground. I hope that’s the case.
TXMMA – How do you plan on winning this fight?
By keeping my distance, fighting to my strengths, and waiting for my opening.
TXMMA – What’s next for you after this? Any last words?
Eric Valdez – I’m already scheduled to fight on Legacy’s July card and very excited for that so it’s going to be a good year. Thank you Mike and TXMMA for your acknowledgment, looking forward to more and more interviews as I progress in my career.