Gaston Bolanos boosted his confidence with his victory at UFC Fight Night 247

LAS VEGAS – Gaston Bolanos took a big weight off his shoulders with his recent victory in the octagon.

The Peruvian fighter earned a unanimous decision victory over Cortavious Romious (9-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) at UFC Fight Night 247 on Saturday, rebounding from his TKO loss to Marcus McGhee earlier this year.

Coming into Saturday’s event with one loss and 1-1 in the Octagon, Bolanos (8-4 MMA, 2-1 UFC) thought he had to prove to fans that he was one of the best fighters today.

“I think I showed that I belong,” Bolanos told reporters at the post-fight press conference for UFC Fight Night 247. “I think I showed that I am a UFC fighter. I feel like so many people doubted me. I think I was able to show that against a strong opponent. Not everyone just gets a contract from Dana White, so I knew it was an uphill battle. I’m happy about that. I didn’t achieve the goal I wanted. I think I was very close.”

As for the next step, Bolanos wants to increase his activity level. He has only fought twice since his UFC debut in April 2023 and wants that to change next year.

“I hope that’s realistic at the beginning of 2025,” said Bolanos about a return. “I’m definitely a fighter who likes to stay active. Hopefully we’ll get something going in the first three months of 2025. I want to fight at least three times next year. I want to show that “Dream Killer” is here to stay. I am a quality fighter for this organization and this department.”