Video: Demian Maia minimizes pressure and wants to avoid 'psychological mistakes' against Russian

D. Maia (photo) comes from two consecutive defeats. Photo: Bruno Ferreira/SUPER FIGHTS

After two consecutive defeats in the UFC, Demian Maia, who was once close to a title fight in the welterweight category, is no longer in such a comfortable situation in the organization. Even so, the Brazilian minimized the pressure to fight against Alexander Yakovlev, at TUF Brasil 3 Final, this Saturday (31). In an interview with SUPER FIGHTS, Demian also stated that he wants to avoid what he considers as some “psychological mistakes” committed in the setbacks in front of Jake Shields e Rory McDonald.

“I think there were a lot of psychological things (that hindered me). I was very prepared for both fights, but there were some things that made me go off track. The fight against Jake (Shield) I always say that I think I won that fight. That split decision, I don't agree with. Even so, perhaps I could have done a few more things to make this clearer, and not have left room for what I consider to be a mistake. The fight against Rory (MacDonald) was a very tough fight, but I also think I made some mistakes. I started very well and I believe that in the second round I made some mistakes, psychologically and anxiously, to be resolved soon”, said the fighter.

This Saturday (31), Demian Maia tries to find its way back to victories against the Russian Alexander Yakovlev. The clash is the second on the event's main card schedule. In the main fight, Fábio Maldonado moves up to the heavyweight category and faces the North American Stipe Miocic. In addition, fight night also hosts the TUF Brasil 3 finals: Warlley alves x Márcio Lyoto, midfielder, and Vitor miranda x Antonio Shoe Guy, among the heavyweights.

Check out the interview below Demian Maia to SUPER FIGHTS:

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