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White: Maia likely done in UFC after completing contract

Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty

UFC president Dana White isn't keen on re-signing Demian Maia to a new contract.

After Maia lost to Belal Muhammad at UFC 263 on Saturday in the last fight on his current contract, White said it was likely the 43-year-old's final trip to the Octagon.

"I think that was his last fight," White said at the postfight press conference, according to MMA Fighting. "It was the last fight on his deal. He's (43) years old. He's been so good at getting in there, securing the takedown, getting on top of people, and just strangling them or grabbing something and twisting it until you quit. He couldn't get it done tonight.

"He's a great guy. He's had a great career," White added. "And yes, I would say that's probably it."

Maia entered the bout against Muhammad as the UFC's No. 9-ranked welterweight. He has now suffered back-to-back losses after Gilbert Burns knocked him out in March 2020.

The Brazilian veteran has competed for the promotion since 2007 and has challenged for championships at middleweight and welterweight. If the Muhammad fight marks the end of Maia's UFC career, he'll exit with a 22-11 record in the promotion.

Maia holds notable wins over the likes of Jorge Masvidal, Carlos Condit, and Jon Fitch. His last victory came when he submitted Ben Askren in October 2019.

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