Ateba Gautier, a rising star in the UFC, undertook a significant life change at just 19 years old. He relocated over 3,500 miles from Cameroon to Manchester. This move was motivated by his ambition to pursue a professional fighting career with the Manchester Top Team, which also trains UFC featherweight Lerone Murphy.
Impact of Cats and Early Success
To ease the transition to his new life, Gautier received two cats from his coach, Carl Prince. These pets have provided comfort and companionship. In 2025, Gauiter showcased his skills by achieving three first-round finishes. His remarkable performance has begun to change his family’s life back in Cameroon.
Dreams and Aspirations
- Gautier aims to help his mother retire.
- He plans to purchase her dream home in Cameroon.
Recognition and Self-Doubt
UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently acknowledged Gautier’s formidable skills, describing him as possessing “terrifying power, super speed, and excellent technique.” Rogan has even referred to Gautier as the “future” of his division.
Despite his achievements, Gautier admits to battling self-doubt. He stated, “I see myself so low that sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and think, ‘I need to train – I’m not that good.’” He draws inspiration from icons like Michael Jackson, Muhammad Ali, and Cristiano Ronaldo, pondering their paths to greatness.
Mindset and Motivation
Gautier emphasizes the importance of hard work and learning from failures. He believes that even the greatest athletes faced setbacks but used them as lessons. He hopes to inspire future generations, stating, “In 100 years, I want people to say, ‘I want to be like Ateba.’ Not just one person – many people.”
