Mark J. Rebilas-USA Today Sports
An important welterweight bout is in the works between Demian Maia and Jake Shields, both of whom will be looking to win in impressive fashion. These two fighters are elite in terms of the BJJ portion of MMA, making this a grappler’s dream fight. There is a lot on the line in this fight, as Maia may be close to contention for a shot at the title currently being held by Georges St. Pierre.
Maia has looked sensational since dropping down from the middleweight division. He is currently 3-0 at welterweight and hasn’t been in trouble once. In his welterweight run, he has defeated Dong Hyun Kim, Rick Story and most recently Jon Fitch. Fighting at welterweight has truly allowed his grappling skills to shine, as he doesn’t have to worry as much about a strength disadvantage.
A couple more wins, and he could very well be fighting for the title.
Conversely, Shields has had an up and down career in the welterweight division. Shields held his own on the feet facing GSP, but was ultimately outpointed and lost a decision. He then lost in devastating fashion to Jake Ellenberger via TKO. His latest welterweight performance wasn’t the most exciting, but it was effective as he was able to grind out a decision against Tyron Woodley.
If this fight hits the mat, which it surely will, it will be an exciting display of BJJ. Maia is one of the most decorated, talented BJJ practitioners in the game right now, and he has a highlight reel of submissions on his resume. Shields is a well-versed American jiu-jitsu practitioner who uses his wrestling with his submission skills quite nicely. It should be a fun bout for the fans.
