Miami, FL – Achieving success is not a linear progression, but rather an emotional rollercoaster filled with ups and downs. After a tumultuous 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and injuries sustained earlier this year, Michael “The Animal” Garcia makes his debut in La Jaula.

“I’ve been looking forward to competing in Combate Global for a very long time,” said Garcia, who competed in the junior Olympics in boxing and weightlifting.

When Boise State cut their wrestling program, Garcia began examining his future in combat sports. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Garcia joined Team No Excuse in Nampa, Idaho under the tutelage of Johnny and Shiely Perez and has been training with them and winning bouts ever since.

Plagued with injuries during the start of this year, Garcia finally feels like he has surpassed himself physically and emotionally before the injuries.

“I honestly thought I wouldn’t be myself because of the injuries I sustained- what I thought was most affected was my pursuit to become the most well rounded fighter I can become. I thank God for rehab and my team’s support. A lot of them have been through the same rut and being able to relate with them means a lot to me,” he added.

Garcia anticipates a “very heated battle” between him and his foe.

“He’s a tough ‘S.O.B,” he said. “I’ve seen several of his bouts and can tell he’s a competitive fighter, but I have the advantage on the ground and I’m a very technical striker.”

When not training for his action-packed bouts, Garcia looks out for the health of his community as he balances a full-time job as a Behavior Specialist. “I cannot wait for the doors that will open up after this bout!”