C. Mendes (left) celebrates his victory over N. Lentz (right). Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
Even with the victory over Nik lentz at UFC on FOX 9, the performance of Chad Mendes drew attention for being below the North American's last performances. The justification, however, came soon after the end of the fight. Still in the octagon, Mendes revealed to Joe Silva, matchmakers of Ultimate, who had been suffering from respiratory problems and, therefore, had insisted so much on taking falls to rest throughout the last rounds. After the event, “Money”, as he is known, explained his situation further and stated that he struggled with sinusitis.
“I had sinusitis a few weeks ago. I didn't want to take antibiotics. This definitely affects performance. After the first round my chest felt heavy. But it's no excuse, the Nik lentz He's a very tough guy. I wanted to be able to finish the fight, but I couldn't. I have to be proud of myself for winning,” said Mendes.
the athlete of Team Alpha Male also lamented the result of his defeated academy teammates and celebrated the victory of Urijah faber. “I'm a little upset, I think I could have done more. But I won. It was a shame for Joe (Joseph Benavidez, knocked out by Demetrious Johnson) and for Danny (Castillo, defeated by the Brazilian Edson Barboza), but I'm happy for Urijah (Faber). He always puts on a show when he fights”, he concluded.
At 28, Chad Mendes has a record of 16 wins and just one defeat, against the Brazilian José Aldo at UFC Rio 2. Since his only career setback, Mendes has won the five fights he has had and remains number one in the featherweight category rankings. According to UFC president Dana White, the North American is very close to having a new chance at the category belt.
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