A victorious Budd called out Rizin veteran Gabi Garcia after the bout, but Garcia is warning Budd to be careful for what she wishes for.
“Forty pounds is a lot, but if she’s asking for that… Careful what you wish for,” Garcia said to MMA Fighting. “I never called anyone out, she’s the one asking for this fight. I’ll fight her tomorrow. I respect her a lot, but she has no idea what she’s asking for.”
The weight difference could be huge for the potential fight as Budd generally competes at 145 pounds, while Garcia has fought above 200 pounds in the past.
Garcia, who is primarily known for a submission game, says she is working on the striking as well to compliment the ground skills.
“I’ve been working on my striking every day despite the injury because that’s what I need to evolve at,” Garcia said. “I train boxing and muay thai every single day, and I’m also working more on my wrestling now. She’s a great fighter, but I’m sure I’d beat her. Every day there’s a girl calling me out, and I’m happy with that. I respect Julia a lot. She’s a great fighter and is always in shape. She’s checking my Instagram stories every day… I guess she’s my No. 1 fan now [laughs].”
Bellator MMA President Scott Coker says he wants to run a co-promoted event with Rizin this December and a bout between Budd and Garcia could be on the slate if it all comes together.
