Demian Maia (photo via UFC.com)

By FCF Staff

After being criticized by Tyron Woodley for taking a May 13th bout with Jorge Masvidal, Demian Maia has fired back at the UFC’s welterweight champ.

Since Maia is currently riding a six fight, winning streak, which includes wins over contenders like Carlos Condit, Matt Brown, Neil Magny and Gunnar Nelson, the expectation was the vaunted grappler would wait for a title shot. In fact, Woodley even argued earlier this year that Maia, and not Stephen Thompson, deserved the next shot at the belt.

But, ultimately, Maia accepted a bout with Masvidal, which will take place this Saturday at UFC 213. During a recent episode of the UFC’s official podcast, Woodley reportedly called Maia’s decision “stupid”. Since then, Maia spoke with MMA Junkie, and the Brazilian star had this to say in response:

“He doesn’t know why I made this decision, he doesn’t know the kind of situation that went down,”Maia said. “So, it was an unfortunate comment. And, also, I see that pattern in him – he never knows if he wants to be a nice guy, or an arrogant guy, or a guy who promotes himself, or a good guy. He can’t go in one direction.

“I think this lack of coherence only hurts him. I think that’s why he’s a champion who doesn’t have a lot of charisma.”

Woodley, meanwhile, recently reported he’ll be fighting in July. But, no details have emerged as to when and who the champion will face.