Thiago Santos not giving up after PFL debut loss: 'We're still in the game'

Thiago Santos won’t be deterred after he dropped his PFL debut.

Santos (22-12) lost a unanimous decision to 2022 light heavyweight season winner Rob Wilkinson in this past Saturday’s 2023 PFL 1 co-main event, which took place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.

The former UFC title challenger has now lost six of his past seven fights. His lone win in that stretch came over Johnny Walker in October 2021. But despite his losing skid, “Marreta” vows to come back stronger.

“At the end of the day, we have two options, give up or continue. And how can I give up on a blessing that God grants me, even with all my difficulties and limitations I’m still here, doing and living what I love. Say what you want to say but we’re still in the game.”

At the end of the day, we have two options, give up or continue. And how can I give up on a blessing that God grants me, even with all my difficulties and limitations I'm still here, doing and living what I love. Say what you want to say but we're still in the game. pic.twitter.com/b5cYnoPslu

— Thiago “Marreta” Santos (@TMarretaMMA) April 3, 2023

“I came from nothing, so mentally I never lose. Everything is a win or a lesson.”

Eu vim do nada mano, mentalmente eu nunca perco. Tudo é vitória ou aprendizado.
I came from nothing, so mentally I never lose. Everything is a win or a lesson.

— Thiago “Marreta” Santos (@TMarretaMMA) April 3, 2023

Santos’ skid began when he took former UFC light heavyweight champion and current heavyweight champ Jon Jones to the brink in a split decision loss at UFC 239. Prior to that, he won eight of nine fights – including TKO finishes of Jack Hermansson, Anthony Smith and former champ Jan Blachowicz.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for 2023 PFL 1.