UFC 92 was definitely not a good day for the Brazilians to participate in the event. But during the toughest moments a fighter may face in his career, a friend always pops up to raise their spirits and self-esteem of the embattled warrior. Demian Maia has been training with Wanderlei Silva for some time. And the friendship between the two has gained further strength with the work they do with physical conditioning coach Rafael Alejarra for MMA.
Demian, who on February 21st faces Chael Sonnen at UFC 95, told GRACIEMAG.com he feels Wanderlei had bad luck, since he was doing well in the fight. “Wand was doing really well, he left the fight in one piece. He said he didn’t see the punch coming, but he was doing really well in the fight. The only thing we can’t control is a strike to the chin, especially in the beginning of the fight when both have so much energy. That’s something that happens. You can be in the best shape possible, if you get hit on the chin, it doesn’t even have to be hard and it will knock you out.”
Demian believes in athletes’ potential for overcoming adversity and feels his friend is prepared to deal with the situation he is experiencing. “He’s really chill. He’s not Wanderlei Silva for nothing. His life is about overcoming, like any other champion, and he has that were strong within him,” stated the black belt.
As he was lending his support to Wanderlei, Demian did not see the fight between Minotauro and Frank Mir, but gave his opinion about Brock Lesnar’s next opponent. “Mir is a guy who always rises to the occasion in his fights and is very dangerous. I think he’ll beat Lesnar. It won’t be an easy fight, but I think he’ll win,” said Demian in finishing.
