Renan Ferreira Interested in Fabricio Werdum Rematch: ‘I’d Love to Get That One Back’

Renan Ferreira’s first PFL season will forever be remembered for the controversial ending to his debut bout against heavyweight legend Fabricio Werdum.

Ferreira appeared to tap to an triangle choke early in the bout, but when the gesture wasn’t noticed by Keith Peterson, “Problema” took advantage and pounded Werdum out for what appeared to be a technical knockout victory. However, following review by the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board, the result was overturned to a no contest.

That, despite two subsequent victories in PFL competition, ultimately kept Ferreira out of the playoffs. Werdum, meanwhile, withdrew from the tournament and appeared to be leaning toward retirement until only recently, when he told multiple outlets that he hopes to fight again for the PFL. If that does prove to be the case, Ferreira would be more than willing to stand across the cage from “Vai Cavalo” again.

“Absolutely. I’d love to get that one back again and make sure to leave no doubt,” Ferreira said at a PFL media day. “Werdum’s a great fighter, I’m a big fan of his, but now is my time.”

That rematch is only a hypothetical for now. Ferreira’s first order of business is a regular season showdown with Jamelle Jones at PFL 2 at Esports Stadium Arlington in Arlington, Texas, on Thursday night. The striking-minded Ferreira is well aware of what his opponent’s strategy will be.

“Jamelle’s a tough guy, tough opponent — heavy on the wrestling department,” Ferreira said. “I trained a lot to be able to stuff his takedowns and keep him from being able to implement his game.”

The Team Nogueira representative expects to be an improved version of the fighter that won two of three PFL appearances last season.

“I'm here to fight against the best. I worked in all the departments. I'm in a lot better shape than I was last season,” Ferreira said.

The 6-foot-8 Ferreira presents a unique challenge to the rest of the PFL heavyweight division because of his height and length. It’s no surprise he admires a former UFC champion renowned for his reach advantage.

“I've always been a fan of Jon Jones' work. He is a guy who uses his reach and height in a way that inspires me,” Ferreira said. “I always looked up to ‘Big Nog’ [Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira] too, I know him personally.

“…Big Nog give me the opportunity, he added. “He opened the doors of his gym and offered me the opportunity to train with the big guys.”

Last year’s heavyweight final was an entertaining, back-and-forth clash between Bruno Henrique Capelozza and Ante Delija. This year, Ferreira envisions himself in that position, and he is willing to defeat whoever it takes to get there.

“I'm ready for anyone. I'm focused on this fight. I know there are great fighters in the division, Bruno and Ante are among the best, but I'm ready for anyone,” he said.