Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal, the Miami-born mixed martial artist famous for holding the record for the fastest knockout in UFC history, has thrown his support behind Emilio González in the upcoming mayoral race in Miami.
Masvidal, who made headlines in 2019 with a five-second knockout, praised González for his military service and his recent legal strategies that preserved the Miami election schedule for November 2025.
Describing González as “the ultimate fighter for our city,” Masvidal emphasized his commitment to fixing the city’s challenges.
“I know a thing or two about fighting, and this guy’s a fighter, Emilio González. He’s ready to fix what’s broken. He’ll put working families first. He’ll clean up City Hall and restore pride to the city of Miami,” said Masvidal.
This isn’t the first time Masvidal has expressed political endorsements leaning toward Florida Republicans.
In 2020 and 2024, he stood supportive of President Donald Trump, and in 2022, he backed Governor Ron DeSantis during the campaign for re-election.
Additionally, Masvidal also lent his support to Gene Valentino’s bid for Congress in December 2022.
González is regarded by Masvidal and many others as the best choice for mayor, especially following his legal battle against the recent City Commission decision regarding election dates.
Earlier this year, the Miami Commissioners voted 3-2 to postpone the city’s November election by one year and shift the contests to even-numbered years.
Proponents of the change claimed it would align Miami elections with federal races, thereby enhancing voter turnout while also being cost-effective for the city.
However, González and critics argued that this decision bypassed the necessary voter approval and jeopardized candidacies while providing an unearned extra term to sitting officials.
Attorney General James Uthmeier expressed concerns over the legality of the Commission’s decision, with backing from Governor DeSantis for potential legal action against the city.
Uthmeier labeled the decision unconstitutional, citing violations of the Miami-Dade Home Rule Charter that mandates any alterations to the city charter, including election dates, must first be authorized by voters.
Several candidates, including González, threatened legal action.
González filed a complaint for declaratory and injunctive relief, leading to a recent ruling in his favor by a Miami-Dade Judge.
The Judge confirmed that the change required voter approval, aligning her ruling with Uthmeier’s interpretation of the law against the city’s defense perspective provided by City Attorney George Wysong.
Masvidal highlighted the broader benefits of González’s legal victory for Miami residents.
“He stood up. I always knew he was the right guy for the job. But now, seeing him go toe-to-toe with City Hall to protect our vote? I respect that even more,” Masvidal noted.
González expressed his gratitude toward Masvidal by stating that having the UFC star in his corner represents a significant endorsement.
“Jorge knows what it means to fight for something bigger than yourself. He’s a Miami warrior, and I’m honored to have his trust. This race isn’t about politics — it’s about protecting our democracy and delivering results for the people of Miami,” González affirmed.
González is one of 11 candidates vying to succeed the term-limited Mayor Francis Suarez.
image source from：floridapolitics
