Marreta's coach recognizes Jones' talent, but says: 'No one is invincible'

T. Marreta in victory for UFC Sao Paulo. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

Thiago Marreta will certainly face the biggest challenge of his career so far this Saturday (6), at UFC 239, in Las Vegas (USA). In addition to the fight for the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg), the Brazilian will have to face what is, for many, the greatest MMA athlete of all time. Aware of the difficulties, Thiago's coach recognizes the American's achievements, but states that he sees flaws in the champion's game, which could give his fighter victory. In a recent interview with 'Combate', Tatá spoke about this weekend's fight.

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“No one is invincible. Anderson (Silva) lost to (Chris) Weidman, (Cris) Cyborg lost to Amanda (Nunes), Demetrious (Johnson) lost to (Henry) Cejudo”, said the coach, giving examples of upsets that have already happened within the UFC.

Duarte also commented on incidents that could influence athletes' performance on fight day. For him, many factors can affect the performance of the athlete who steps into the octagon to perform.

“Individual sport is complicated. You woke up feeling unwell, you slept poorly, your wife fought with you before, there are many variables. But Marreta, of the preparations we made, this was the best mood. It's funny that it's the heaviest fight, but it was the fight where I felt he was lighter, more tied up. I told him to enjoy this moment. We fought so hard to be here and now we have to enjoy it. I think Jones has weaknesses. Nobody ever saw him being beaten”, declared Tatá.

Despite recognizing Jones' undeniable talent, Duarte states that Marreta's team studied the American's game a lot and found flaws in some of the belt holder's fight situations. Jon, in fact, rarely gave his opponents a chance to put him in risky situations.

"The Jon Jones He's a guy that I don't need to repeat and say is out of the ordinary. He is one of the biggest names in the sport. But even these people have loopholes. Champions also lose and Saturday this will happen for sure. We see very interesting points. You can't stop in front of him, he's a guy who can't dictate the pace of the fight, he's extremely strategic,” said the coach.

Tatá claims that his pupil has the necessary resources to surprise 'Bones'. Duarte also spoke about the Brazilian's qualities and commented on the areas trained and which could be essential for Marreta to become the new champion.

“Marreta has enough power, speed, skill and resources to surprise the Jon Jones. We practiced some punches and kicks that Marreta is not used to using, which will be a surprise on the day. Marreta's footwork is very good and has everything to surprise the general public who don't believe in his victory and bring victory to Brazil”, concluded Tatá.

At 35 years old, Thiago recently moved to the light heavyweight category. Previously, the athlete was among the middleweight fighters (up to 83,9kg). Stronger and heavier, in the top category the Brazilian has already competed in four fights, emerging victorious on every occasion; in three of them, by knockout.