Number three in the welterweight rankings, Demian Maia There is no doubt: he will compete for the category belt. In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS, the Brazilian spoke about the current scenario of the division, what his plans are in the organization and was optimistic about his next steps. However, he admits that the draw in the duel between Tyron woodley e Stephen Thompson, held at UFC 205, in New York, may make him wait a little longer to receive the long-awaited title shot.
“I believe Woodley won (the 1st, 3rd and 4th rounds), I even told him that after the fight. (The draw) could hinder me if they (the UFC) want to do the rematch, but nothing has been scheduled yet, they haven't said anything. Let’s see what will happen in the next few days”, said Demian.
According to Demian, one of the reasons that makes him believe he will be the next challenger in the category are the words of Dana White, president of the UFC. “He (Dana White) said this at the press conference right after UFC 205. They asked about me, and he said: 'In the position Demian is in now, he's next. If we are going to have a rematch, he can choose between waiting or fighting.' So those were his words”, declared the Brazilian welterweight.
Asked if he can remain calm about the promise made by Dana, who has a history of often not keeping his word, Demian was confident and praised the UFC board, saying that the organization has always been very correct with him. As a bonus, he stated that, at the moment, there are no other names ready for the title fight.
“I can, because they never broke their word with me. And there's also no one to put (in the title fight) other than me or 'Wonderboy'. There are no other athletes. So, I don't believe (that another athlete will be chosen). Especially because, as I said, the UFC has never failed to keep its word with me to this day”, concluded Maia.
At 39 years old, Demian has won six consecutive victories, the last of which was against Carlos Condit, in August this year, via submission in the first round.
Demian is on a six-fight winning streak in the welterweight division. (Getty Images)
