Veteran reveals goal of breaking Demian Maia’s UFC record

After losing three fights in a row, Michael Chiesa turned his career around. At UFC 310, an event held last Saturday (7), in Las Vegas (USA), the MMA veteran submitted Max Griffin, scoring his second consecutive victory. Excited about the triumph, the American, who also works as a fight commentator, now aims to break the record held by a Brazilian in the organization.

At the post-show press conference, Chiesa revealed his desire to overcome Demian Maia, owner of the highest number of submission victories via rear naked choke in the UFC. During his career in the league, the veteran forced opponents to give the traditional three taps nine times. As he has seven triumphs using the same method, the American, overjoyed at becoming a black belt in jiu-jitsu last Friday (6) and winning on his birthday, confessed that he gained motivation to prolong his career in MMA and seek such a brand.

“I saw that I tied with Florian, with seven submissions by rear naked choke. Now, I have to chase the great Demian and try to get past nine. This created another little goal for me. Obviously, the objective remains the same. I want to be champion, otherwise what's the point of fighting? It was a very special 24 hours for me. Getting my black belt and getting a submission victory on my birthday, I don't think I'll ever have a better 24 hour period in my life outside of my marriage. I am very happy with my performance”, declared the athlete.

Chiesa's MMA record

Michael Chiesa, 37, is an MMA veteran and competes in the UFC's welterweight division (77 kg). The American began his career in the sport in 2010 and debuted with the company in 2012. In this sport, 'Maverick' won the 15th edition of 'TUF' and was part of the top-15 in the company's category for years.

Professionally, the athlete built a record consisting of 18 wins and seven losses. His main triumphs were over Al Iaquinta, Beneil Dariush, Carlos Condit, Diego Sanchez, Francisco 'Massaranduba', Jim Miller, Neil Magny, Rafael dos Anjos and Tony Ferguson.