‘I cracked’ – Chiesa beyond ‘embarrassed’ by UFC 265 loss

Veteran Michael Chiesa releases a candid post-fight statement after his UFC 265 loss to Vicente Luque.

TUF 15 alum Michael Chiesa had momentum going for him entering his UFC 265 fight with Vicente Luque. Up until the first couple of minutes, “Maverick” led the dance and threatened a rear choke, which Luque admitted was already “80 percent” in.

But Luque proved to be a crafty submission artist himself as he turned the tables to emerge with another win via D’arce choke. This naturally disappointed Chiesa, who released this candid post-fight statement via social media.

I want to jump out in front of this now. First and most importantly, congrats to @vicenteluque, he’s a stone cold killer and a class act. I look forward to seeing what’s next for him. It was an honor sharing the octagon with him.

To say I’m embarrassed is an understatement. Physically, I was in the best shape of my life, mentally I was battling myself every single day. I put too much pressure on myself this fight and I cracked. Historically throughout my career, every time I have faced adversity and came up short, I’ve turned around and grown tremendously. A couple more wins and I’ll be back in the mix.

The goal remains the same, my belief is still just as strong and I love every single person that supports me so much that it hurts.

The loss breaks Chiesa’s four-fight win streak, as he drops to a record of 18-5. On the other hand, Luque continues to pile on finishes as he improves to a record of 21-7-1. And from this performance, the champ has taken notice.