The UFC has finally found a new man to fill the seat of General Manager in Brazil.
Giovanni Decker will be in the shoes previously worn by Grace Tourinho. He will also pose as as the company’s Senior Vice President. An experienced professional, Decker has been a business executive for 23 years and says he’s it’s an honor to work for the UFC.
“I am honored to be joining the UFC. Mixed martial arts has long captivated the Brazilian sport fan and held an important place in the Brazilian sporting landscape and I am excited at the opportunity of joining the world’s leading MMA organization. I have spent my career leading brands to new heights and will bring the same intensity and experience to the UFC.”
Garry Cook, UFC’s Chief Global Brand Officer has also emphasized the importance that the Brazilian market represents for the promotion, and the opportunities Garry will have to improve their activities in the country.
“Brazil represents the UFC’s largest market outside of the USA and we are pleased to have Giovani take the helm and continue to grow and guide this thriving business. With the upcoming launch of The Ultimate Fighter Brazil 4, newly crowned lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos, long-time featherweight champion Jose Aldo facing the fiercest challenge of his career and global star Ronda Rousey headlining this summer’s blockbuster event in Rio, there will be no shortage of excitement and opportunity for Giovani and the UFC Brazil team.”
Decker’s role, which will be effective by early April 2015, will consist of developing new Brazilian athletes by overseeing local promotions and growing the UFC’s brand in the country as a whole.
So far, Brazil has hosted two events in Brazil in 2015, UFC Fight Night 61 and 62, but there are still three more scheduled to happen further into the year. Those are UFC Fight Night 67, on May 30th; The TUF Brazil Finale on June 27th; and UFC 190 on August 1st which will feature a title fight between Ronda Rousey and Bethe Correia.
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