A Long and Winding Road
Bibiano Fernandes, affectionately known as "The Flash," has had a storied career in mixed martial arts (MMA). With 12 wins in 15 appearances and 11 bantamweight title bout victories under his belt, Fernandes has been a cornerstone of ONE Championship for over a decade. However, his journey with the promotion hasn’t been without its bumps. In 2022 and 2023, Fernandes was unhappy with how his contract situation was handled. After a decision defeat to Stephen Loman, he found himself without a contract and forced to sit out for a year. This led to a candid interview with MMA Fighting, where he advised fighters to "think twice" before signing with the Asian promotion. Despite the initial friction, Fernandes and ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong have since mended their relationship, and Fernandes is set to face Kevin Belingon in his final MMA bout at ONE 171 in Qatar.
Reconciliation and Reflection
Fernandes’s relationship with ONE Championship has been a long and complex one, spanning 11 years. He recently shared with MMA Fighting that he and Sityodtong had a heart-to-heart conversation about the interview he gave. "I’m at ONE for 11 years and every relationship has two sides," Fernandes explained. "I didn’t get in this organization yesterday, so Chatri and I spoke about that interview I did. We sat down and spoke, I said I was with them for a long time, and liked ONE Championship, and I wanted to say what I was feeling." Sityodtong, recognizing the value Fernandes brought to the promotion, felt bad about the way things had transpired and asked what he could do to make amends. Fernandes suggested a retirement bout, and the two came to an agreement. This final fight is not just a personal closure for Fernandes but also a testament to the resilience and mutual respect that can emerge from difficult situations.
Preparing for the Farewell
Since his last ONE fight in late 2023, Fernandes has kept himself busy with jiu-jitsu tournaments, including a grappling match with Urijah Faber at ADXC in August 2024. He has also added muay thai and boxing to his daily training regimen, ensuring he is in top form for his final bout against Belingon. Fernandes has a history with Belingon, having faced him four times in ONE championship fights, with a record of 3-1. He describes Belingon as a "very explosive and slippery" opponent who will "probably try to keep the fight on the feet and knock me out." The Brazilian veteran is well aware of the challenges ahead but remains focused and determined. "Last time Kevin and I fought, it did like 39 million views," Fernandes noted. "People were very into this fight, especially the Filipinos. I went to Thailand once and stopped in the Philippines and everybody wanted to take pictures with me. So it wasn’t a surprise that they booked it again."
A Legacy of Champions
Before his successful stint at ONE, Fernandes was a two-division champion at Japan’s DREAM. His journey in MMA began in 2001, and over the years, he has compiled an impressive record of 24 wins in 30 professional bouts. As he approaches his 45th birthday, Fernandes is preparing to walk away from the sport, but his legacy will live on. He is seen as an example for future generations, not just for his achievements in the octagon but for his dedication and perseverance. "Never give up," Fernandes said. "I come from Manaus and never had many opportunities in life, but I made it happen. I jumped on every challenge I saw. People said I was crazy, but there’s a good and bad side to everything in life. I never quit, and stayed ready for war." His story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and determination, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
Life Beyond the Cage
Fernandes’s dedication to the sport extends beyond his own career. He has been actively involved in coaching and developing the next generation of fighters. "You don’t see people fighting at 45, but I don’t drink and I don’t smoke. I dedicate 100 percent to the gentle art and MMA," he said. His lifestyle choices and commitment to the sport have allowed him to maintain his physical and mental sharpness. After his final fight, Fernandes plans to redouble his efforts in coaching, aiming to produce champions in both jiu-jitsu and MMA. His gym, which he runs in Manaus, Brazil, has already produced several notable fighters, and he is eager to continue this legacy. "When I’m done fighting, I’ll dedicate even harder to coaching and making champions in jiu-jitsu and MMA," Fernandes stated. His passion for the sport and his community is evident in every word he speaks.
A Final Chapter
As Bibiano Fernandes prepares for his final MMA bout, the weight of the moment is not lost on him. This fight is more than just a match; it’s a chance to say goodbye to a sport that has defined his life for over two decades. Despite the challenges and setbacks, Fernandes remains grateful for the opportunities MMA has given him. "I was there for many years and it wasn’t correct I wouldn’t get my farewell," he said. "When I was released from my contract, I was busy with my gym and had the [IBJJF] Pan-Ams coming, where I competed at. We kept talking, and we got to a deal. And the relationship is way better now." Fernandes’s final fight against Kevin Belingon is a fitting end to a remarkable career, and he is determined to go out on a high note. Whether he wins or loses, his impact on the sport and his community will be felt for years to come.
