UFC finisher Damian Pinas: ‘They were counting me out’

Damian Pinas, a middleweight prospect with a perfect 10-1 professional record and a devastating finishing rate, credits recent UFC success with earning him respect he previously lacked. Speaking ahead of his UFC 332 bout against Andrey Pulyaev on October 3 in Salt Lake City, "The Baba Yaga" reflected on how back-to-back UFC finishes have changed perceptions of his abilities. Pinas has finished all ten of his professional victories, including nine knockouts and one submission, yet he revealed that critics were skeptical of his potential before his recent performances. "They were counting me out" before his recent wins, Pinas said, noting that his recent success has increased recognition and respect throughout the fighting community. Beyond his striking prowess, Pinas hinted at untapped dimensions to his game. He acknowledged possessing strong grappling skills that he has deliberately kept hidden from opponents, preferring to reveal that aspect of his arsenal at a strategic moment. For now, Pinas plans to extend what has become a first-round knockout streak in the UFC, maintaining the finishing mentality that has defined his early career. His approach reflects confidence that his striking alone is sufficient to succeed while preserving grappling as a potential surprise element if future bouts require it.