Rafael “Gifted” Garcia (10-0) is one of those mythological beings that excel in almost every aspect of the sport, something that he has proven again and again since Combate Americas discovered him three years ago in an open tryouts in Los Angeles, California.

“It was a really good decision I made,” Garcia said in an interview with Combate Americas. “When they told me about the tryouts I didn’t want to go, I didn’t believe in that, because I had previously gone to Argentina and it didn’t work for me, but when I arrived at Los Angeles tryouts, there were more than 300 people and I was the only one that got the opportunity, from there we went to Mexico City, we won, and until now we are still undefeated”.

With only a 0.33% chance of getting the opportunity to enter “La Jaula,” Garcia managed to surprise the company at the tryout and earned a spot to compete in Combat 10. “Gifted” proved to be a perfect nickname during his debut, where he finished RaĂșl Najera Ocampo with a heel hook in just 64 seconds.

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The Mexican fighter who was 5-0 after his promotional debut, then started a winning streak where each one of his victories surpassed the next one.

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Winning by TKO, decisions and especially submissions, the Mexican fighter demonstrates great technique. With eight submissions in 10 victories, Garcia has proven to be a dangerous fighter both on the  ground and with his striking ability.

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With a 10-0 record as a professional, including 6 victories in a row inside Combate Americas, Garcia has established himself as a star in the lightweight division. He will make his return to “La Jaula” on September 20 in Combate Americas: World Lightweight Championship, in Mexicali, B.C., Mexico. He is facing MMA superstar Erick “The Ghost Pepper” GonzĂĄlez, who will undoubtedly be the biggest challenge of Cub Swanson’s protĂ©gĂ©s.

Garcia took an opportunity he was given 3 years ago and turn it into a meteoric career.  He stands as proof that when talent meets dedication, the sky is the limit.