Cain Velasquez has been the key fixture in the UFC’s attempts to break into the Mexican market. Velasquez, a Mexican-American, has staked his claim as the best heavyweight fighter in the world and his “Brown Pride” tattoo makes it clear that his heritage is of great importance.
Velasquez recently spoke to Fox Sports and explained growing up without a heavyweight boxer he could relate to and if he feels he can fit in as being a role model for younger Hispanic men and women:
“I didn’t have a hero playing in sports that looked like me,” Velasquez told FOX Sports. “I loved football as a kid. Of course, I loved boxing. But I didn’t see any heavyweights like me. I didn’t have those dreams.”
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But as far as being a role model for young Hispanic men and women, the kind that he didn’t have growing up, Velasquez is hesitant about that idea. The gravity of that distinction is important to him and he’s not quite ready to commit to it yet.
“I’m not really sure,” Velasquez said. “I’m hoping to be.”
Velasquez returns to action on November 15 against Fabricio Werdum at UFC 180.