Seasoned UFC fighter Danny Roberts chose to ignore warnings that the GFL launch could be too optimistic.
The former UFC competitor, who previously faced notable opponents including current world champion Jack Della Maddalena, was released despite winning Fight of the Night in 2023. After a period away from the sport, he signed on to face Neiman Gracie on the inaugural GFL card.
Roberts was slated to appear on a lineup featuring former champions such as Anthony Pettis, Benson Henderson, and Holly Holm. However, the event collapsed, which came as no shock to many in the fighting community. Roberts has since found a new opportunity, headlining the PFL event in Brussels for his first fight with the promotion.
Roberts Remained Confident in GFL Launch Despite Doubts
Originally scheduled for the first GFL show, former UFC welterweight Danny Roberts had to change plans after the event`s cancellation. The promotion had planned a full weekend of fights in Los Angeles before it was called off entirely.
“When you put a fighter in a difficult situation, it highlights why we are fighters,” he stated in an interview before his Brussels bout. “We are simply wired differently.
“Nobody can convince me something isn’t happening until I witness it myself,” he said. “I trained intensely, like the dedicated fighter I am, constantly preparing and positioning myself to succeed if the event went ahead.
“My entire focus and effort were poured into preparing for that fight, driven by the pursuit of glory. Only fellow fighters truly grasp the level of dedication required – the toll on our bodies, the sacrifices, and avoiding distractions.
“When I invest so much into something, I feel obligated to be the one who maintains hope that it will succeed. That was my role.”
Roberts Aims to Halt Patrick Habirora`s Undefeated Streak
Following the GFL situation, Roberts joined PFL, securing a significant main event opportunity in Brussels. He is scheduled to face the unbeaten Belgian fighter Patrick Habirora (6-0) in his promotional debut. While Habirora boasts an impressive record, he has not yet competed against an opponent with UFC-level experience like Roberts.
“Many tend to judge a fighter solely on their recent performance, forgetting their overall history,” he observed. “Consider Kamaru Usman, who also faced a losing streak, leading some to believe his career was over.
“But you have to look beyond that – consider their past achievements, their character as a fighter, and their identity,” he argued. “To reach greatness, you often need a degree of self-belief that borders on delusion, and Habirora clearly possesses that. However, sometimes that mindset can be detrimental, and facing me now is simply the wrong time for him.”
