“I feel nervous no matter what” - BJJ legend Marcelo Garcia says he still feels pre-fight jitters even after decades of competing at the highest level

Marcelo Garcia has competed at the absolute pinnacle of Brazilian jiu-jitsu for over two decades, but nerves never disappear. However, he's been able to manage them better.

The 42-year-old legend faces fellow icon of the sport, Lachlan Giles of Australia, in a lightweight submission grappling showcase at ONE Fight Night 38 on Friday, Dec. 5, inside Bangkok's legendary Lumpinee Stadium.

During his interview with Nick Atkin, the Brazilian revealed that even with his unparalleled competitive experience, pre-fight anxiety remains constant regardless of opponent or stage.

"I feel nervous no matter what and you just got to have to manage. But for me, going to ONE for the second time, at least now I know what to expect," the cancer survivor shared.

"And to be doing this in Thailand again, I feel like it doesn't feel that much like new anymore, you know. Feels great, you know, but I'm glad there's nothing that I need to get used to. I feel like just like the first time," Marcelo Garcia continued.

Check out his full interview with Atkin below:

That honesty from someone of Garcia's stature carries tremendous weight.

The Brazilian is widely considered the greatest submission grappler of all time—a five-time ADCC world champion and four-time IBJJF world champion whose butterfly guard innovations revolutionized modern Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Yet despite that legendary resume, he admits nerves remain part of his pre-competition routine.

Marcelo Garcia vs. Lachlan Giles will be part of ONE Fight Night 38, which will be available to active Amazon Prime Video subscribers in North America this Friday, Dec. 5.

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Lachlan Giles expects the "best version" of Marcelo Garcia in Bangkok

Lachlan Giles has nothing but respect for Marcelo Garcia before they share the mats on submission grappling's grandest stage in two days.

When asked about what version of 'Marcelinho' he expects to square off against in Bangkok, the Australian BJJ legend said he's getting himself prepared to face a prime Garcia.

"I fully expect Marcelo hasn't just been sitting around. He's still rolling and training with good people. I expect it to be the best version of Marcelo. That's how I'm approaching it. I'm training hard," the 39-year-old told ONE Championship.

Who takes home the win in this single-round all-legend tie? Let us know your predictions below!