- Demian Maia is hoping to have one more outing in the cage but only under the UFC
- Maia believes that Charles Oliveira would be the toughest challenge for Khabib Nurmagomedov
UFC veteran Demian Maia has been enjoying life outside of competition, at least in mixed martial arts. Recently, Maia made a return back to his roots in Brazilian jiu-jitsu to take on Alex Oliveira at BJJ Stars 8. Although Maia came out on top, the speculation over his future loomed bigger than ever.
Now, Maia has revealed his plans for the future and how he sees himself in MMA ahead.
Demian Maia wants 1 more fight
As a longstanding fixture in the sport, Maia enjoyed a professional career that has spanned over two decades. He signed with the UFC over 15 years ago to beat Ryan Jensen in his debut at UFC 77 in 2007. Although he’s enjoyed a largely successful career, Maia has only made two appearances in the cage over the last two years.
Having dropped both of his two latest outings, Maia chose to take some time off without indicating what was ahead. In a recent interview with Luke Thomas for Morning Kombat, Demian Maia revealed his desire to fight one more time. His only condition is that his final bout happens under the UFC.
“No, I’m not officially retired. I want to do one more fight in the UFC but I don’t want to fight any other event because UFC’s my house, has been my house for the last 15 years”
Maia backs Oliveira over Khabib
After a statement win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 274, Charles Oliveira took himself forward in the talks for the greatest of all time. Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov usually leads the race when it comes to talking about the GOAT at 155-lbs.
Demian Maia believes that Charles Oliveira has the ability to give Khabib the toughest challenge of his career.
“Charles, in my opinion, (is) the toughest challenge for Khabib”
“I don’t think Khabib will be a big threat for him standup. Once Khabib takes him down, which is the main game of Khabib. That’s why I think this is the toughest match for Khabib because Charles, he has a great guard.”
Maia has made a point in favor of Oliveira over Khabib. However, the match will likely remain a fantasy as ‘The Eagle’ does not intend to change his plans of staying retired. Oliveira will be taking on the next top contender in his next fight to get the vacant lightweight title.
