The Brazilian star Jiu-Jitsu played very fiercely against Belal Muhammad in the Welterweight weight match at the UFC event 263. Throughout the competition, he made 21 Takdown attacks but only once successful.
After a series of three wins in 2019, Maia has decided in recent matches and has lost 5 in 8 appearances on the ring since 2017.
UFC President Dana White stated that Maia may no longer play for the tournament at the following press conference.
“I think it was his last battle,” White said. “It was the last match in his agreement. He was 43 years old. He was very good at approaching the opponent, performing Takedown, making a tight lock until the opponent gave up.
And he can't do it tonight. He is 43 years old, he is a wonderful person, he has a great career and yes, I will say that maybe you don't play here anymore. ”
UFC's decision seems to be in accordance with Maia's plan after the defeat against Gilbert Burns in March 2020, when he said he wanted to retire after another match.
As for Belal Muhammad, confronting Maia is a surreal experience, although Brazilian boxers are at the end of his career.
“My feelings 'damn, I'm fighting Demian Maia.' He is a legend, “Belal Muhammad shared.
“When sitting outside talking, it feels very normal, but when you really stay in the cage with him, you will think 'damn, I am confronting Demian Maia.”