FROM HEROIN TO HERO –
July 14, 2024 – But for someone who battled heroin addiction and came out the other side, a fighting career hanging in the balance is small potatoes.
“I really have been through so much (adversity) in my life, with the drugs and substance abuse, going through treatment and getting arrested. If I don’t wake up and have to go find $10 to get high, then I’m winning at life.”
With that mindset and a well-constructed game plan, Petroski defeated Fremd 30-27, 30-27, 30-27 as the former college wrestler capitalized on his clear edge in grappling. Petroski took down Fremd in each round, and each time, the Factory X fighter was unable to get off the canvas.
“I had done some training with Josh in the past, and I knew where I had the advantage over him,” Petroski said. “I think that I’m a better striker than Josh, but I also knew my grappling was so much better than him.
“I was in a position where I’m coming off two losses and it’s not about getting a highlight or anything like that. It’s about doing what I have to do to win and keep this career going and provide for my family.”
Petroski improved to 6-2 in the UFC with the victory, while Fremd fell to 2-4. Petroski paid no mind to the deafening cheers for Fremd when the local stepped into the Octagon.
