Derrick Lewis Comments On Terrible Performance At UFC 226

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Derrick Lewis commented on his ‘terrible’ performance last night at UFC 226 against Francis Ngannou, which was criticized by many. Here are highlights:

On his performance against Ngannou: “It was a terrible performance. I know I say that a lot. But it was real bad of a performance. I know for sure I don’t deserve a title shot. I believe it hurt me more than it helped me. Even though I got the win, I believe it sent me, probably, about two fights back.”

On his gameplan of the fight: “We knew he really wanted to counter me, coming in with my right hand. Because they know I’m real vulnerable when I come in with my right hand – because I just throw it straight and I lean over whenever I throw it. I know he really wanted to catch me coming in and hit me with a uppercut left hook. Really, the game plan was to take his ass down, and I already told my coach I don’t know how to take down. I don’t know to do takedowns.”

On his back problems: “My back was killing me. All I wanted to do was just sit down and stay on that bench. … It was embarrassing. I wanted to go, but my body wouldn’t let me.”