Khalil Rountree continues to handle his UFC 307 defeat with class.
Although Rountree (13-6 MMA, 9-6 UFC) gave an interview in the cage Saturday at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, as he nearly bled all over commentator Joe Rogan, he did not post anything on social media until Sunday.
In a lengthy written statement, Rountree thanked Alex Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC) for the intense back-and-forth battle their shared together and indicated he discovered a lot about himself over the course of the fight.
“I didn’t win the title but I grew last night,” Rountree wrote on Instagram. “@alexpoatanpereira thanks for helping me see that I’m ready to take on the world. You showed amazing skill, you brought out a version of me that I needed to experience. You’re the champ for a reason, much respect. But I now know what I am capable of.”
Rountree lost his first UFC title fight by fourth-round TKO, but had strong moments in the first two rounds despite his status as a heavy betting underdog. He was praised across social media by fans for his heart, courage and moments of success in the fight.
“#saltlakecity you guys were amazing and gave me such a memorable experience,” Rountree continued. “I appreciate all of the positive messages from everyone around the world. @danawhite @espn @espnmma and the entire @ufc staff, thanks for giving me a home, a place to have purpose and providing me with challenges to overcome. Big thanks to my wife @miakang, my family (Donny, Dave, P, all of my uncles and aunts, The Pavlica’s, the Ramseys, Everyone) for your unconditional support. Brazil you guys have a strong champion, be proud.
“I will take time to heal from this, I’ll be back even better, it’s inevitable. I’m grateful. Never give up on yourself, always fight hard, uplift your communities and find ways to make the most out of life. @deltacenter thanks for hosting us. #ufc307 was a night to remember.”
Rountree, 34, had won five fights in a row to earn his title shot. Given the damage (some of it very visible) sustained Saturday, it’s unclear when he will return. Whenever he does, Rountree will almost certainly do so with a following.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 307.
