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Veteran Demian Maia could have one last title run in him if he scores another win at UFC Brasilia.
Welterweight veteran Demian Maia was planning to call it a career after two more fights, but if a win over Gilbert Burns at UFC Brasilia puts him in title contention, he just might reconsider.
At 42 years of age, Demian tells Ag Fight there is a high possibility he will hang up his gloves after two more outings, but the idea of going for one last title run, as well as holding the record for most wins in the Octagon, could make him hold those thoughts for a little longer.
“It’s obvious that I want to reach Cerrone’s win record, I know that’s important for my career. Those milestones last forever, even if someone passes you later, they are forever. To reach a milestone like that is a kind of title, but I can’t keep thinking about it. I have to focus on the fight, because it’s a really hard one.”
“At first, yes, there is a 90% chance of that happening (retiring after two more fights).” Demian continued. “However, if I win that fight and there’s a title possibility, or if I win this one and the next and they call me, sure I will (postpone retirement). A chance to fight for the title is something that would make me stretch out my career a little longer.”
Currently on a three-fight winning streak, Demian Maia (28-9) defeated Lyman Good, Anthony Martin and most recently, Ben Askren back in October 2019, Ben Askren. The 42-year-old’s last loss happened in May 2018, when he dropped a unanimous decision to now champion Kamaru Usman.
Demian Mais is expected to take on Gilbert Burns at UFC Fight Night 170, in Brasilia, Brazil, on March 14. The card is scheduled to be headlined by a lightweight bout between contenders Charles Oliveira and Kevin Lee.