J. Shields (left) hopes to fight a jiu-jitsu duel against D. Maia (right). Photo: MMA Press Production (UFC/Disclosure)
the american Jake Shields has a tough challenge ahead. In October, he faces the Brazilian Demian Maia, who is on the back of three consecutive victories since moving down to the welterweight division. Although Demian is considered one of the best jiu-jitsu fighters in MMA, Shields is not afraid to go to the ground with his opponent.
“You never know exactly what's going to happen, but I hope this is a jiu-jitsu fight,” he said. “We are both great jiu-jitsu fighters and we will probably try to take the fight to the ground. It's hard to say who will be better there, we have different styles. I love fighting and finding out who is the best. I never really train in a kimono and I have a more aggressive style”, added Shields, in an interview with the American website MMA Fighting.
Owner of ten submission victories in professional MMA and some achievements in the gentle art, including a Pan-American jiu-jitsu title, the North American has reason to be confident of a good record against Demian on the ground. He credits his success to his training partners on Cesar Gracie's team.
“I'm very lucky to have the best jiu-jitsu training in the United States. All these guys – Nick Diaz, Nate diaz, Gilbert Melendez, kron gracie –, I’m surrounded by great Brazilian jiu-jitsu fighters, so I’m with the right people to beat Maia.”
Shields will face Demian in the main fight of UFC No Combate 4, which will take place on October 9, at Ginásio Poliesportivo José Corrêa, in Barueri.
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