“With my first career run in the UFC, I really didn’t take purpose. I feel like that’s the biggest difference, and the effect that he has on me is the purpose that I decided to switch and really follow. I think it’s a learning experience and it’s a life experience, and I know he’ll be a part of me, and I can’t wait to represent him even more, and I’ll represent him till I’m the one that’s gone.”
Zalal made his professional MMA debut in August 2017, rattling off six straight wins, with five of them coming by submission. Two and a half years into his pro career, he got the call to make his UFC debut in Houston, Texas. After winning three straight, Zalal dealt with some road bumps, losing three straight and getting handed a draw, which ultimately led to him getting cut from the roster.
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For a kid in his twenties, Zalal admits he didn’t handle things well.
“I really didn’t know what was going to happen. I had no clue. I think that’s one of the first times I sat down and was like what’s next? I remember the phone call I got from my manager. He was like, ‘what do you want me to push for?’ And I was like, ‘I want that UFC back, and I want to get that taste out of my mouth.’ I think that’s when I found my purpose, found my why, and understood my why.”
