Derrick Lewis entered UFC Nashville as a +200 underdog against rising fighter Tallison Teixeira, who was heavily favored by sportsbooks at up to -275. Despite expectations, Lewis surprised everyone by delivering a knockout in just 35 seconds, quickly ending the fight and overturning the odds against him. This upset win highlighted Lewis’s frustration with the ongoing disrespect he feels from bookmakers and competitors.
Lewis Expresses Frustration Over Underestimation and Rivalry
Following his unexpected victory, Lewis aired his grievances during the ESPN post-fight interview, questioning how he was still viewed as an underdog despite his extensive experience. He also mentioned recent injuries but insisted they did not justify his low ranking.
“I can’t believe I was a underdog against a guy like that,”
Lewis said.
You know, I’ve been in this sport for a long time. Even though I had a couple of injuries or some things that came up lately, I still shouldn’t have been an underdog. And plus, they was talking trash all week.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter
Lewis’s motivation appeared fueled not only by disrespect from the betting tables but also by personal animosity toward Teixeira and his team, Team Xicao.
Personal Conflict Added Fuel to Lewis’s Performance
Lewis revealed that tensions ran high between the coaching staffs, which intensified the rivalry leading up to the fight. He found Teixeira’s behavior and attitude especially aggravating, which increased his determination inside the cage.
“My coach had got into with their coach also, he said. It was bad blood, and I didn’t like how the guy was smiling all in my face also at the weigh-in.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter
“I just hate that guy’s face. I hated him. I probably didn’t hate no other opponent by him. I hated him the most. Just his smile. I couldn’t even really watch highlights of him because I kept just seeing a smile on his face. I hate that guy.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter
Lewis Targets Waldo Cortes-Acosta for Next Fight
Looking ahead, Lewis expressed interest in facing Waldo Cortes-Acosta, who recently secured a decision victory over Serghei Spivac at UFC 316. Despite Walter Walker’s recent dominant performance, Lewis dismissed him in favor of Cortes-Acosta due to a personal call-out from the Dominican fighter.
“The Waldo guy, since he called me out, I want him,”
Lewis stated.
The Dominican dude that say he’s not black. He’s Dominican.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter
Lewis is eager to fight again soon, making it clear he does not want to be sidelined for long. He even joked about having to contact UFC President Dana White should he be kept out of action.
“Next month or in two months or something like that,”
Lewis said.
Hopefully, they they don’t put me on the sideline for a while … I’m gonna have to call the president if they do.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter
Aiming for a Title Shot as Time Runs Out
Despite his age and recent challenges, Lewis remains focused on his ultimate goal: a shot at the UFC heavyweight title. He acknowledged that time is not on his side but made it clear he desires to compete for the championship.
“S—t, I ain’t getting no younger,”
he admitted.
Of course I would like the title shot.”
—Derrick Lewis, UFC Fighter