Manoel Sousa credits farm work for his knockout power ahead of UFC Vegas 120

Ahead of his second UFC appearance, Manoel Sousa has already made a strong impression with his knockout power. In August 2025, the Brazilian stepped into the Octagon for the first time to face Bolaji Oki and defeated his opponent with a vicious knockout that earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.

In fact, nine of his 14 professional victories have come by TKO or knockout. The source of this power, however, is unusual. According to the Brazilian, it was his hard work on the farm from a young age that contributed to his tremendous strength.

Manoel Sousa Owes Knockout Ability to Time on the Farm 

A professional fighter since 2019, "Manumito" had a difficult childhood that forced him to work on a farm from an early age. Whether it was opening coconuts or handling wild bulls, the Brazilian always had to rely on hard manual labor. Speaking to Ag Fight, Sousa credited his work on the farm as one of the main reasons behind his strength and knockout power.

"I think some people are just born with knockout power, with that natural strength in their hands," Sousa began. "But I also think doing hard, physical work, handling heavy things and dealing with wild bulls gives you an unusual amount of strength."

Manoel Sousa Ready for Short-Notice UFC Return

Scheduled to face Richie Miranda at UFC Vegas 120 this Saturday, Sousa accepted the fight on one week's notice but says he was ready for the opportunity. The Brazilian has continued training hard and believes he can step into the Octagon at any moment when the UFC calls.

"I'm always ready, man. I'm always training hard and staying focused. Whenever they call me, I'll be ready."

Manoel Sousa Confident he can Knock Out Miranda

Despite facing an opponent who is currently riding a seven-fight winning streak, Sousa is confident he will be able to impose his game. According to the Brazilian, he has found many openings in Miranda's style when analyzing his opponent. For that reason, Manumito believes his hands will eventually land and he will be able to finish Miranda.

"I saw a lot of openings in his game," Sousa said. "And once I start imposing my style, I don't think he'll be able to handle it. The hands are going to land. If it doesn't end in the first round, it won't make it past the second. And if it doesn't end in the second, he'll go down in the third."

Sousa will now have the chance to back up his confidence inside the Octagon. After making a memorable UFC debut with a knockout, the Brazilian is looking for another statement win in his second appearance.