Benoit Saint Denis reacts to UFC Paris loss to Renato Moicano

Benoit Saint Denis released a statement following his loss at UFC Fight Night 243.

Saint Denis (13-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC) suffered a round 2 TKO loss to Renato Moicano (20-5-1 MMA, 12-5 UFC) in last Saturday's main event at the Accor Arena in Paris. Saint Denis was knocked down in Round 1 and suffered serious injuries to both eyes.

He was able to recover well in round 2, but by the end of the round his face was covered in blood. The doctor examined him and deemed him unfit to continue after Saint Denis had difficulty seeing. “The God of War” had a slow start to its performance that cost it dearly.

“A big thank you to everyone for your support, it was absolutely incredible to be here,” Saint Denis said through an interpreter (h/t UFC). “Unfortunately I came out in the first round and was a bit sleepy, and so he was able to do enough damage to play matador in the later rounds. Well, I'm sorry about that. I will come back stronger. “I’m sorry for that performance, but I was proud to represent the flag.”

Saint Denis later issued a statement on his Instagram, addressing his fans in French.

“It wasn’t my day, this sport is hard but incredible,” said Saint Denis. “Thank you everyone for your unwavering support. Proud to represent France in the octagon and at home. Respect to my opponent for the home game against me and congratulations to Renato Moicano. God tests us and that is nothing like what I experienced.”

“Ce n'était pas mon day, ce sport est dur mais uncroyable.

Merci à all for your soutien indéfectible. Fier d'avoir pu représenter la France dans l'octogon à la maison 🇫🇷.
Respect to my opponent who insulted my house and congratulations to @renato_moicano_ufc.

“Dieu mit dem épreuves sur notre chemin et celle là n't rien compare mit dem, que j'ai pu vivre 🙏🏼.”

After five consecutive placings, Saint Denis has now suffered two consecutive defeats against Dustin Poirier and Moicano.

For more information on the card, check out MMA Junkie's UFC Fight Night 243 event hub.