The former champion is in the midst of a three fight losing streak, but Garbrandt views the series of defeats as a good thing.
“I think it’s a blessing in disguise that my career’s kind of taken this halt and stopped as far as transcending,” Garbrandt told MMA Junkie. “Each win, you’re going to keep fighting and fighting, so I’ve been able to sit at home, still train, be with my family and watch my son grow and be hands-on.”
It has been almost three years since the last time Garbrandt won a bout, with that last win coming against former UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz at UFC 207.
Garbrandt, despite the losing streak, believes he is better than the rest of the bantamweight division and sees a championship within reach.
“I know I’m way better than these guys, but I sometimes fight to their level when I bang it out,” Garbrandt said. “When I stick to my skills, my speed and do what I’ve done to become a world champion, no one in the world can match me. The main thing is just staying hungry, motivated and health is a huge factor in that. Being motivated to go in there and train. Now it’s about being smart. I’m 28 years old and I feel like a lot of my best performances are ahead of me. It’s a marathon. A lot of these guys have not reached the pinnacle I have at an early age and the career and as many fights as I’ve had. So I’m still learning and growing and the hunger and motivation is there.”
Another thing that Garbrandt revealed during the interview with MMA Junkie is that he is cleared to compete again, but a return date hasn’t been announced at this time.
