Jimmy Flick of the United States points to the crowd after a flyweight bout against Malcolm Gordon of Canada during the UFC 297 (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
Jimmy Flick, the UFC flyweight known as “The Brick,” is gearing up for a strong return to the Octagon in 2025. In a candid interview with RG, Flick opened up about his recent setbacks, his engagement, and his ambitious plans for the coming year.
After his fight with Nate Maness, Flick faced a setback due to a knee injury.
“I had a light tear in my MCL, a partial tear and a word I can't pronounce,” Flick explained.
Despite the UFC's initial suggestion of stem cell therapy, Flick opted for physical therapy and a knee brace on the advice of a local doctor in Oklahoma. This decision, while prolonging his recovery, allowed him to focus on his personal life.
“Just been hanging out with the family, got engaged. So looking to get married in 2025,” Flick shared, highlighting the silver lining of his time away from the cage.
However, the 34-year-old fighter is now eager to return to action and has set clear goals for himself.
“Finish out these three fights, win all three of them, get a new contract. I got some goals for 2025 and hoping for March or April,” Flick stated, outlining his immediate plans.
His determination is palpable as he aims to improve his current UFC record of 2-3.
Challenging Road Back
Flick's journey back to full-time training hasn't been without its challenges. He revealed that the UFC had offered him a fight against Jose Johnson on January 11th, but he requested a later date to ensure he was fully prepared.
“I loved the matchup, but can we get like February or March? I didn’t want to hurt myself,” Flick recounted.
Unfortunately, the UFC couldn't accommodate his request, leaving Flick disappointed but undeterred.
The flyweight division has seen significant changes during Flick's absence, with new contenders emerging and established fighters facing setbacks. Flick expressed interest in several potential matchups, including a bout “Lazy Boy” Ronaldo Rodriguez.
“I would love to fight him in Mexico City. I got my passport. I'll stay ready for that,” Flick said, showcasing his willingness to take on challenges wherever they may arise.
Flick's approach to his career in 2025 is all about staying ready and seizing opportunities.
“I'm going to stay ready because there are a lot of fights booked in March,” he explained.
This mentality could serve him well in a division known for its fast-paced action and frequent changes to fight cards.
Intense UFC Training
The interview also touched on Flick's training regimen and his thoughts on weight management. While he's content with his current setup in Oklahoma, Flick expressed interest in utilizing the UFC Performance Institute to improve his weight cuts.
“I think if I could get out to the UFC PI, it would help out a lot with my weight cuts,” he noted, acknowledging the challenges he's faced in making the 125-pound limit.
Reflecting on his fighting style, Flick aims to showcase more of his grappling prowess in future bouts.
“I need to wrestle more. I need to keep these guys on their toes and be more like Merab,” he said, referencing the relentless pace set by bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili.
Flick's passion for the sport and his determination to succeed are evident throughout the interview.
“I'm ready to get back to fighting like I did against the Nate fight,” he stated, while also emphasizing his desire to display his full skill set. “I'm “The Brick” for a reason. It's because my game's solid all over. In 2025, I'm going to show that.”
Looking ahead, Flick is open to all challenges the UFC might present.
“It's really up to the UFC,” he said when discussing his potential trajectory in the division. “They give me a ranked opponent, then boom, by the end of 2025, we could be in the top five with three big wins.”
Flick's mindset going into 2025 is clear and focused. With his eyes set on climbing the rankings and securing a new contract, Flick is ready to make the most of every opportunity.
As Jimmy Flick prepares for his comeback, his words resonate with the determination of a fighter on a mission. With his knee healed, his personal life in order, and his goals clearly defined, 2025 could be the year that “The Brick” cements his place in the UFC's flyweight division.
Garrett Kerman
