Alberto Del Rio: I’ll be doing for Combate Americas what Dana does for UFC

The Hispanic-oriented MMA promotion Combate Americas, recently announced that former fighter Alberto Rodriguez (better known as pro wrestler Alberto Del Rio) was the new president of the company. Combate Americas was created in 2012 by UFC co-founder Campbell McLaren; events stream in English on UFC Fight Pass.

Now nicknamed Alberto El Presidente Rodriguez, the former fighter and performer will make his CEO debut at Combate Americas: Empire Rising on Friday at Turning Stone Casino Resort in Verona, New York.

The new position comes during a tumultuous time in his life. Six weeks ago he was released by the WWE. He reports he was stabbed recently outside the San Antonio Airport. And his girlfriend WWE wrestler Paige (real name Saraya-Jade Bevis) has been suspended for 60 days for a second violation the company’s Talent Wellness Program; the company reported her test was flagged for an illegal, not a prescription drug.

Rodriguez discussed his new position during a recent interview with Josh Barnett for FTW.

“I’ve been in the MMA industry and the MMA world for many years. I started as an amateur wrestler, became a pro wrestler and then an MMA fighter in Japan and Mexico,” he said. “At that time, Campbell McLaren approached me about being part of Combate Americas, but they wanted me to join as a fighter. I told him if he ever had another role, and I’m not fighting anymore, I would be more than happy to take it. They finally found the perfect role for me.

“I’m going to be doing what Dana White does for the UFC. I’m putting my face out there for the people to see and to learn about the company, finding the talent, finding new places for our events that want to see good competition and good MMA. I’m working hand in hand with Combate Americas to see where we’re going and what we’re doing. I also will be helping the fighters not just to be great fighters and great athletes but the entertainment part – what to do in front of the camera and with a microphone in your hand. If we make more money, they make more money.

“I’m going to keep wrestling. I’m in the last two years of my pro wrestling career. Until I get to that day, I’ll be doing shows, probably once a week or maybe more than that. My priority is Combate America, and whenever I have the chance, I will go do pro wrestling shows for different organizations.”

Combate Americas: Empire Rising
October 14, 2016
Turning Stone Casino Resort
Verona, New York

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