Thales Leites is getting ready for his first big fight after exiting the UFC, where he went as far as challenging champion Anderson Silva for the title.
The black belt fights on December 4 at MFC, in Canada. His opponent is former ADCC champion Dean Lister, who also spent time in the UFC.
For the challenge, beyond his usual training at Nova Uniao, Thales counted on help from Coach Josuel Distak. The fighter feels all set to put on a great performance this next bout.
“I’m feeling really good, confident and, mainly, happy to have the opportunity. It’s a big event in Canada and I’ll fight a big-name fighter, Dean Lister. I did a lot of preparation work, you can be sure of that. Now I’m just waiting for the fight to happen and I can promise you that I will be more aggressive and versatile, as I have been in training,” he says to GRACIEMAG.com.
Lister is known for his ground skills, as is Leites. Nevertheless, the Brazilian prepares himself for whatever is to come.
“I have to cover all my bases, because it’s MMA. There’s nothing to stop him from knocking me out or submitting me or me doing the same with him. Before the end of the fight each side has a 50% chance to win. Let’s wait and see, but I’m confident, looking to get over there and win this fight,” he says in finishing.
Leites faces Marquardt at UFC 85
