Jennifer Maia highlights progress after facing Shevchenko and projects two victories to return to challenge for title

J. Maia (photo) returns to the octagon after fighting for the belt against V. Shevchenko. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

After realizing his dream of fighting for a belt in Ultimate, Jennifer maia is back in the octagon. Former challenger for the flyweight title (under 56,7kg), the Brazilian will face Jessica Eye this Saturday (10), at UFC 264. Before the confrontation, the Brazilian spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS, highlighting his evolution after facing Valentina Shevchenko, analyzing the duel over the weekend and showing optimism about his future in the company.

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In her last fight, Maia was scheduled to face the feared Shevchenko in the title fight in the under-56,7kg category. Although she was defeated by points, the Brazilian had good moments and even scared the champion. Now, the Paraná native returns to the Octagon to try to regain her status as a challenger.

Post-Valentina moment

Brazilian standout in the category led by Valentina, Maia left her fight in UFC 255 with high morals. Even beaten by the champion, the athlete managed to surprise the Kyrgyzstani, taking her rival to the ground. Almost eight months later, the woman from Paraná highlights what changed in her life after exchanging forces against the group leader.

“I believe I gained a lot of experience and confidence from this fight. Having a five-round fight against one of the greatest athletes in UFC history, I believe I came out of there big. I fought on equal terms. I have confidence for future fights and I know that I can unleash my all, that there is no mistake. Giving my all, victory will be a consequence,” he said.

Sadness after defeat? None of that

In history as one of the athletes who caused the most danger to Valentina in the flyweight division, Jennifer revealed the behind-the-scenes of the moments that followed the setback in the UFC 255. According to the Brazilian, there was no room for sadness but rather for learning and respect for the champion.

“The feeling was one of joy and that my moment had come. I was prepared. I didn't emerge victorious, but it was due to the champion's merits. I was very happy. It's a dream come true to compete for a UFC title. I haven’t managed to win it yet, but we saw that we are on the right path to achieve it,” said Jennifer.

Valentina's weak point

Famous for her versatility, Maia even scared Shevchenko at some points during the clash on November 21, 2020. The Brazilian then confirmed that she may have revealed weak points for a possible defeat of the Kyrgyzstani, who has never lost in the category.

“During the fight, there were moments when I managed to nullify her a little. Many people say that I showed the point, it's just difficult to reach, because she is a very tough athlete. I believe that in the next fight, having already fought against her, I can change the result”, declared the woman from Paraná.

Walkthrough for the rematch

Opponent of Jessica Eye, who has also competed for the division title, Jennifer sees the commitment as a big step on the path towards the belt. The Brazilian, however, adopts a cautious stance and avoids taking another chance, even in the case of a great performance.

“I believe that a good victory and, perhaps, another good victory, I can have a new chance. I take it one fight at a time,” she revealed.

Respect to Jessica Eye

Faced with a former title challenger, Jennifer doesn't want to hear about disrespecting her opponent before the confrontation. Showing that she knows her rival well, the Brazilian analyzed the 'marriage of styles' for the duel.

“Jessica is a very complete, tough athlete. She goes up all the time. I believe we can use some loopholes to surprise. I think it's going to be a very good fight. I like the striking part too,” she said.

Dream ending

Known for both her jiu-jitsu and her strength in her fists, Maia has yet to have the opportunity to score a knockout with Ultimate gloves. Seeking to end her fast, the woman from Paraná then chooses the fast track as her dream victory.

“I haven't had the opportunity to knock out in the UFC yet. Knocking out in a big event like this would be a dream”, he concluded.

Athletes' history

At 32, Jennifer maia is heading towards his 27th fight as a professional in MMA. Today, the Brazilian has 18 wins, seven losses and one draw. The Paraná native currently occupies fourth place in the group.

Number seven in the rankings, Jessica Eye makes his 26th appearance in the sport. The North American has 15 triumphs, nine setbacks and one 'I didn't answer'.

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