One storyline receiving a good deal of attention during the build to this past weekend’s headlining bout at UFC 142 between featherweight champ Jose Aldo and top contender Chad Mendes had to do with the presence of highly-touted 155er Gray Maynard in the Brazilian’s camp. The two talented competitors met backstage at UFC 136, a card featuring respective bouts from both, and quickly established a friendship ultimately resulting in Maynard’s decision to help train Aldo for his title-defense.
With Aldo’s impressive takedown defense against decorated wrestler Mendes there’s little doubt Maynard impacted Aldo’s preparation in a positive way. However, when asked about the 21-1 champion’s performance, Maynard made sure to give full credit to the dynamic 25-year old.
“I flew out here because who he is, because he’s a humble guy, a nice guy and I helped him on a couple small things and he did it,” said Maynard in a backstage conversation with TATAME. “It was a quick fight, obviously. He did perfect…he did awesome. I was happy. He was prepared.”
Aldo Talks About the Bonuses of Having Maynard on Board
The 10-1-1 Maynard is not currently linked to any future match-ups though it’s probably he’ll fight again in the next few months. He was last seen taking on lightweight king Frankie Edgar this past October where he nearly ended up winning the divisional belt only to suffer a knockout loss in the final few minutes of the fight’s fourth round.
PHOTO CREDIT – UFC
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