UFC middleweight contender Gregory Rodrigues has spoken publicly for the first time since his crushing loss to Jared Cannonier at the Apex this past weekend.

Off the back of three straight wins, Rodrigues had the opportunity to break into the top 10 and title picture at 185 pounds. Headlining for the first time, the Brazilian's shot at a major climb up the ladder came opposite a divisional veteran in Cannonier.

Despite a strong start that saw him drop "The Killa Gorilla" twice, Rodrigues was unable to make good on his favorite status, fading as the rounds went on before eventually being stopped with strikes in the penultimate frame.

"Robocop" addressed his defeat for the first time on Tuesday, claiming that severe issues during last week's weight cut hampered his ability to compete at his best on fight night.