Mendes Not Concerned with Maynard’s Doubt

In advance of his UFC 142 title defense against Chad Mendes on Saturday at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featherweight champion Jose Aldo sought out the wrestling expertise of three-time NCAA All-American Gray Maynard. During a pre-fight teleconference, Mendes largely shrugged off comments Maynard made in regards to his not being prepared to face a fighter of Aldo’s caliber:

“Maynard saying that he doesn’t think that I’m ready for a title shot: I don’t know why Maynard’s saying anything about anyone. He’s never trained with me. He doesn’t know how good I am. He’s probably just saying that because he’s training with Aldo, but, other than that, I feel like I’m prepared. My standup is going to be where it needs to be to get in there and fight with Jose, and I know my wrestling’s going to be better. I’m stoked for this fight.”