Demian Maia Explains Why He Accepted a Fight With Jorge Masvidal at UFC 211

No. 3-ranked welterweight contender Demian Maia recently took to his Facebook page, commenting on his upcoming welterweight bout with surging fighter Jorge Masvidal. The two are currently scheduled to fight at UFC 211 in Dallas, Texas on May 13.

Maia responded to those questioning why he would take the fight instead of waiting for a possible shot after Tyron Woodley vs. Stephen Thompson’s rematch, which is set for UFC 209 tonight. Maia explained his reasoning, which you can read below:

I have been getting a lot of questions from fans and the press on why did I take this fight, such a dangerous fight, just days before the WW title takes place. It was no secret I was waiting for a title shot, and it could seem strange on why did I change my mind so close to probably finally having my chance confirmed.
It is very simple. I was asked to take a fight, and told I needed to remain active to get my chance. I am and have been a martial artist, a competitor, and a fighter for more than 20 years now. This is what I do for a living, and this is who I am. I respect the UFC and Dana White a lot, it’s been almost 10 years, and if that’s what I have to do, it makes no sense to wait any longer.

I honestly believe I had already done enough to have a title shot, but not everything in life is often as we wish, and now that doesn’t matter anymore. All my focus is on UFC 211, as Masvidal is an extremely tough opponent and no fighter can think past him. Being the sportsman I am, I’m going to go in there, do my best, compete and test myself yet again. That’s the life I have chosen.

Maia is currently on a six-fight winning streak. Even if he defeats Masvidal, there is still technically no guarantee he will still earn a title shot. It will depend on what’s happening after Saturday’s title fight. Also, Woodley has been vocal in the past on wanting fights with lightweight champion Conor McGregor and also the now returning former welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre. GSP is currently slated to fight Michael Bisping for the middleweight title later this year.