By Eduardo Ferreira

Photo Esther Lin

One of the greatest villains in MMA – in Brazilian’s eyes, of course –, Frank Mir talked exclusively to TATAME Magazine said he’s not the best grappler in MMA’s heavyweight division.

The American, who in last December submitted Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, said this “title” belongs to a Brazilian. “When people compliment my Jiu-Jitsu I also say (Fabricio) Werdum’s is better than mine”, Mir said, who through his career defeated names like Brock Lesnar, Tim Sylvia and Roberto Traven using the gentle art.

Werdum, who fights this Saturday at UFC 143, when he meets Roy Nelson, was caught by surprise by the good words said about him.

“I didn’t see it coming, I’ve always seen him as a ‘cocky’ guy”, he told TATAME. “I guess he’s a very good athlete, and he proved the world he has great Jiu-Jitsu level… I don’t see myself as the best on the ground, but I’ve shown the world I can handle things there”.

Happy about the compliments, Fabrício does not discard a bout against Mir at UFC’s cage, once the American does not have a bout scheduled since he defeated Nogueira at UFC 140, in December.

“I guess this fight could happen, absolutely… My next appointment is Roy Nelson, but it’s one of the fights that might come up”.