Flyweight Jennifer Maia appears like she likes her division’s title image a complete lot extra now that long-reigning champion Valentina Shevchenko has misplaced the belt. Paired up in opposition to Casey O’Neill for a struggle at UFC 286, the Brazilian considers the present scenario a great alternative for her to begin a brand new title run.
In a dialog with Ag Fight, Maia praised the brand new champion, Alexa Grasso, whereas additionally explaining how she’s been reinvigorated from seeing a brand new girl on the high of the division. Nevertheless, the 34-year-old believes it is going to be tough for the Lobo Fitness center athlete to reign over the load class for so long as predicessor.
“I did assume Valentina was going to have issues, as a result of no person is unbeatable. I knew Grasso was a really decided athlete and could be a handful for her. It wasn’t a giant shock that she misplaced the belt, despite the fact that she continues to be the best flyweight in historical past,”
“I used to be joyful Grasso grew to become champion,” Maia stated. “It mixes the division a little bit and that motivates me to try to conquer the title. I believe it’s going to be tough for her to remain the champion for so long as Valentina did, however she’ll do every part she will to maintain the belt.”
In her final outing, Maia (20-9-1) scored a unanimous choice win over Maryna Moroz, in November 2022. The victory snapped a two-fight shedding skid for the 34-year-old, with unanimous choice losses to Manon Fiorot and Katlyn Chookagian.
Maia is anticipated to tackle O’Neill at UFC 286, on March 18, in London, England. The cardboard is scheduled to be headlined by a rubber match for the welterweight title between champion Leon Edwards and former title-holder Kamaru Usman.
