How Do Presidents Get Protected While Fighting Terrorism in the UFC?

Benoit Saint-Denis, a rising star in the UFC, has carved out a unique niche not only as a fighter but also as a former operative in the French military. Balancing between his past experiences in counter-terrorism and his current challenges in mixed martial arts, he has faced both physical and psychological hurdles. As of now, he has won six of his nine fights since debuting in the UFC in 2021. His journey, however, hasn't been without its setbacks, including a pivotal defeat last year that tested his resolve and required a reassessment of his approach to training and competition.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

• Benoit Saint-Denis has a military background in counter-terrorism.
• He has faced significant challenges in the UFC, including two major defeats in 2024.
• Saint-Denis has recently begun working with a head coach to enhance his fighting skills.
• He is set to fight Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Paris.
• His experiences in the military have shaped his discipline and approach to combat sports.

From Soldier to Fighter: A Unique Background

Benoit Saint-Denis was born in Nîmes, southern France, and joined the French Army Special Forces at the age of 18. His military career spanned five years, during which he specialised in counter-terrorism operations primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Working against groups like Boko Haram, he was involved in high-stakes missions that required immense discipline and quick thinking. "Most of my work as a Special Force operator was in the sub-Saharan area. So Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger," he recalls, highlighting the gravity of his role.

Saint-Denis’ military training provided him with essential skills in strategy and discipline, which he initially tried to apply to his MMA career. However, the transition to the UFC has proven to be both challenging and rewarding. "It was very adventurous, and I loved it," he notes of his time in the military, indicating a deep affection for the work he did, even as it involved life-or-death circumstances.

The Pressure of the Octagon

Since his UFC debut in 2021, Saint-Denis has experienced the intense pressures of being a professional fighter. Despite recording six victories, his journey has not been linear. He faced a significant roadblock in March 2024 when his five-fight winning streak was snapped by Dustin Poirier, followed by another defeat to Renato Moicano six months later. These setbacks not only affected his standing in the UFC but also his mental state.

“All the 2024 year was the hardest," he reflects, citing the immense pressure that comes with popularity and expectations in the UFC. The attention from fans, media, and the sport itself can be overwhelming, and for Saint-Denis, retaining focus on his fighting mission became a struggle. "It's the pressure of popularity, the ability to keep the same passion and the same fire for the fight," he explains.

Learning from Defeat: A New Approach

After suffering defeats in 2024, Saint-Denis realised that his training regimen needed to change. He had been training largely on his own, without the guidance of a head coach, which contrasted sharply with his experiences in the military where teamwork and mentorship were crucial. "Being disciplined and being able to have a plan, and to respect it, and to keep close to it was important," he states, reflecting on his military training.

In a bid to revamp his approach, he chose to work with coach Nicolas Ott. This decision marked a turning point for Saint-Denis, who returned to winning form against Kyle Prepolec in May. "Having a good head coach with the same human values as you and being disciplined is vital," he asserts. This partnership has allowed him to refine his skills and regain a sense of direction in his fighting career.

Looking Ahead: UFC Paris and Beyond

As he prepares for his next fight against Brazilian lightweight Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Paris, Saint-Denis carries a newfound outlook towards his career. The fight, set to take place at the Accor Arena, is an opportunity for him to demonstrate the improvements he has made since teaming up with Ott. "Together as a team, we're working in directions that make me a better fighter," he affirms, indicating optimism for his future in the octagon.

With a career that intertwines military service and professional fighting, Saint-Denis has a unique perspective on both worlds. While they each present their own challenges, he is clear about which he finds more demanding: “It depends on the occasion, but globally, I would say being a UFC fighter.” This admission underscores the intense nature of professional fighting compared to the structured environment of military operations.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Benoit Saint-Denis stands at a critical juncture in his career, blending the skills he honed in the military with the demands of being a professional fighter. His story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the constant pursuit of improvement. As he heads into his fight at UFC Paris, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he applies his experiences and training to reclaim his position in the lightweight rankings. The future is uncertain, but Saint-Denis is determined to forge his own path.

As he continues to evolve both as a fighter and a person, one thing is clear: the journey of Benoit Saint-Denis is far from over. How he navigates this phase will undoubtedly be as captivating as his past. #BenoitSaintDenis #UFC #MMA

FAQs

What is Benoit Saint-Denis' military background?

Benoit Saint-Denis served in the French Army Special Forces for five years, focusing on counter-terrorism in regions like Mali and Niger, primarily against groups such as Boko Haram.

How many fights has Benoit Saint-Denis won in the UFC?

Since his UFC debut in 2021, Saint-Denis has won six out of nine fights, showcasing his skills in the lightweight division.

Who is Benoit Saint-Denis' current coach?

Saint-Denis currently trains under Nicolas Ott, who has helped him refocus his training and improve his performance in the octagon.

What challenges did Saint-Denis face in 2024?

In 2024, Saint-Denis faced significant pressures and setbacks, including two losses that tested his focus and mental resilience in the UFC.

What is the significance of the upcoming fight at UFC Paris?

The fight against Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Paris represents a critical opportunity for Saint-Denis to regain momentum and showcase the improvements made under his new coaching structure.