Cyrille Diabate: Talks about signing with the UFCDuring 20 minute call, Cyrille discusses returning to UFC, losing to Shogun 3 years ago, Ultimate Fighter Season 9

ThrowThemBows.com editorial author David Hojak (0-0) recently got a chance to speak with veteran mixed martial artist and TUF9 Team USA striking coach, Cyrille Diabate (14-6). Born to French parents in Le Celle St Clous, France in 1973, Cyrille has spent his life winning WKA and National Kickboxing titles, which he gave us some insight into during his call.

On the call, he also discussed the pretense of how he'd like to return to the UFC, what awaits him when he gets there, and how long he'd like to stay.

Cyrille was humble in his approach to returning to the UFC, believing that he was as tasked with proving his worth in the organization despite his vast experience, especially considering his impressive 7-1 run in his last eight fights.

He talks more about his chance to perform in Pride in front of hundreds of thousands of fans, and takes with him the memories of walking down that Pride ramp, down to the Pride ring, and living in the moment of competing in a Pride bout. Though he admits he was finished brutally, he bears no ill will towards Shogun.

He continues to work with Dan on his stand-up, and continues to be worked with on his grappling by those at Team Quest in Temecula, CA. He states that the level of training he's offering and receiving there is beneficial to all involved fighters, his team included, and looks forward to their continued output of strong, rounded athletes.

He expressed confidence in Xavier Foupa-Pokam, who has seen some unfortunate losses in the octagon as of late, but who carries a reputation amongst those he trains with that leaves them shocked at his performances. He believes he will be back, speaks in correlation between Xavier bouncing back from his short slip, and Cyrille's own personal issues that at one point plagued his mind and affected his ability.

Cyrille Diabate Brings It

Cyrille is a tough fighter who brings it with the intention of finishing it, every time he gets in there against anyone he'll be versus that night. Records in MMA are deceptive based on the flash-nature and come-from-behind-victory potential that looms over every fight between two skill athletes, mainly those throwing heavy shots at one another. Diabate has admirably found himself in this position many times throughout his career, and in doing so, only three of his fourteen wins have gone to a decision, while eight of them have been knocked out.

He has overcome the personal problems he encountered in the past to reemerge as a prospective light-heavyweight, one that could very well accommodate, as well as greatly impact, a division that's seen its title change hands four times in two years. Cyrille overcame a professional downswing in his career, in addition to severe personal injury, and at 35 years of age, will now look to impact the UFC's 205 lb. ranks.

The fighter he's become throughout his return to a positive point in his career has earned the respect of both his peers and his students. David Hojak wanted his interview uncut, and therefore, will be. This is the unedited call, as it was made and as it took place, without any exclusions. Yes, that's Hojak's cell phone ringing in the background. Yes, he feels like the jerk in the movie theater who didn't turn his ringer down first. Rub it in later, and for now, listen to the interview.

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