Mikey Musumeci is one of the best pound-for-pound grapplers in the world. In the past few years, he has worked with several UFC fighters, including former featherweight champion Brandon Moreno.
'Darth Rigatoni' was recently credited with budding UFC bantamweight contender Chase Hooper for their work together ahead of UFC 310 on Dec. 7.
Hooper, one of the top Brazilian jiu-jitsu fighters in the 155-pound division, faced Clay Guida on the preliminary card. He secured a knockout victory over Guida and now shares some details about how his training with Musumeci helped him deliver the UFC veteran.
The 25-year-old recently appeared on the JAXXON PODCAST hosted by former UFC champion Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson, where he said:
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“Honestly, I was trying to build that armbar. I worked with Mikey Musumeji when I was in New York for the MSG card. I was working for (UFC) Fight Pass. I got to hang out with him, and he just beat me up until the fight, and then he gave me this kimura hold. pointed to the little underarm rig, I cut it a little.”
See the discussion about Chase Hooper Mikey Musumeci below (0:05):
Mikey Musumeci shares his pick of the best fighters in the UFC
Mikey Musumeci was recently signed by the UFC Fight Pass team in what could be a pivotal moment for the sport. The New Jersey native is eager to do just that a number of changes to the sport with the help of an established platform like the UFC.
Having previously competed in the ONE Championship from 2022 to 2024, the submission fighter returned home and He signed an exclusive contract with the UFC.
Musumeci recently interviewed MMA personality and media personality Nina-Marie Daniele, who asked “Darth Rigatoni” to share his pick of the best fighters in the UFC. He chose his longtime trainer and former heavyweight rival. Gilbert Burns.
Musumeji said:
“VI got my black belt from Gilbert Burns. So, he's my coach, so I have to say him. But I really think he has amazing jiu-jitsu. Great presentations, great everything. So, he is my answer.”
Watch Mikey Musumeci's comments below (16:15):
Edited by Tejas Rathi