J. Maia at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC
Jennifer Maia's imposing victory in the biggest challenge of her career put the Brazilian in excellent condition for a fight for the flyweight belt (under 56,7kg). When hitting Joanne calderwood in the co-main event of UFC Las Vegas 5, held this Saturday (1), in the United States, the woman from Paraná challenged the current champion of the category, Valentina Shevchenko, who confirmed his interest on social media.
“I thought following logic: since Jojo (Joanne) was going to fight Valentina, since we had this fight now, I would probably take her place. I feel like I’m ready”, said the Brazilian at a press conference held after the show.
Aware that – if the confrontation is confirmed – she will face a great opponent, Maia showed her feet on the ground when dealing with the talent of Valentina, undefeated champion of the division since December 2018.
"It is difficult. She is a very tough athlete, but it is by fighting her that I will be able to find a way to beat her”, concluded the combatant.
The triumph over Calderwood, Jennifer, who entered the Octagon as number six in the rankings, should take the place of the Scottish woman, who was in third place before the defeat.
Shortly after the result of the co-main fight, Shevchenko used her social networks to accept Maia's challenge.
“See you soon, Jennifer,” wrote the champion.
