Ronaldo ‘Jacare’ Souza issues statement after loss to Jack Hermansson

On Saturday night, in the main event of UFC Fort Lauderdale, Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza risked his promised middleweight title shot in a fight with short-notice replacement opponent Jack Hermansson. Unfortunately for the former Strikeforce champ and his fans, this gamble did not pay off. Instead, the 39-year-old was walloped to a decision loss by his opponent and his title dreams were once again dashed — perhaps for a final time.

Speaking on Instagram on Tuesday, Jacare issued a statement on this loss. He seems to be in good spirits.

“I’d like to thank everybody for their support,” Jacare wrote in his post-fight statement. “My opponent had a good strategy and won. Right after the fight I was very upset and disappointed but NOW God has been comforting my heart and even though I didn’t win, I don’t feel sad anymore. I glorify the Lord for this. I want to thank everyone who believe in my work and support me! I’m taking some time to rest with my family and I WILL be back soon!”

It’s good to hear that Jacare’s mood has improved, as he admitted he was feeling quite bad at the UFC Fort Lauderdale post-fight press conference.

“I’m sad, because I did a great training camp for this fight,” The Brazilian said in English (transcript via MMA Junkie). “I don’t feel tired. But I can’t put my game on in the octagon. I’m bad right now.”

“I don’t have plan right now,” he added. “I come back to my home. Take a vacation with my family. Tomorrow, I’m going out with my kids. I don’t know. I need back with my family and that’s it.”

With this loss to Jack Hermansson, Jacare returns to the loss column after a thrilling knockout victory over former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He’s now 26-7 overall. What do you think the future holds for him after his tough setback in Florida?

This article first appeared on BJPENN.COM on 5/1/2019.