Paulo Filho was one of the most promising middleweights around back in 2007 when he conquered the WEC belt by knocking out Joe Doerksen and defended it by submitting Chael Sonnen. All of that while sporting a spotless 16-0 record.

However, his career was put to a halt when addiction came in to place. As he reflected back on those days while speaking to Tatame, Filho believes the depression cause by the substance abuse was his biggest setback.

"The medications didn't hinder me at all, honestly. The depression caused by me doing cocaine did. I had just defeated Chael Sonnen in San Diego and went to Mexico to celebrate. I got really drunk and started to feel sick. Some Mexican guy offered me the drug and I used it and felt like I was brand new. It lifts you up to the clouds, but once it's gone, it leaves you deeply depressed."

Aware of former UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones' situation, Filho believes they are very much alike and for that, he sees Jones having a relapse with the drug.

"Jon Jones has the same disease I have. We are genetically weak to ingest any substance. You do it once and then you can't live without it. Sooner or later, he will go back to it."

Paulo Filho has only one win in his last seven fights and hasn't competed since getting shot in the leg back in 2014 at a night club in Rio de Janeiro.