Derrick Lewis has consistently been a major draw in the UFC, particularly known for headlining events due to the excitement heavyweight fights bring, especially the high potential for knockouts. Lewis, a master of the knockout, certainly embodies this.
As fans anticipate his upcoming fight against Tallison Teixeira at UFC Nashville, they hope to see the explosive performance ‘The Black Beast’ is known for.
However, Lewis isn`t just popular for his finishing power. His unique personality, expressed through his fighting style and famously hilarious interviews, has made him one of the sport`s biggest characters. But this trademark post-fight entertainment might be changing.
Derrick Lewis Aims for More Mindfulness to Avoid Embarrassing His Children
In a recent discussion with Shakiel Mahjouri leading up to UFC Nashville, Lewis was asked about which of his memorable post-fight remarks embarrasses his kids the most. `The Black Beast` is arguably as famous for these viral interview moments as he is for his impressive knockout tally.
Recently, however, Lewis revealed he`s making a conscious effort to change his ways, suggesting we might not hear another instantly viral quote after his next fight.
He explained that while controlling emotions right after a fight is tough, he`s trying to be more “mindful” in those moments specifically to prevent causing his children second-hand embarrassment.
“So that’s why I’m not doing it anymore. I’m not doing that again. I never think about it in the moment but afterwards I think about it like, damn, I’m sorry.”
Lewis elaborated, noting that his post-fight antics could affect his children or his own standing when he`s in public, particularly around other parents who might recognize him and his work.
“They’re older now so I’m trying to be mindful of the things I do because they want me to go to their school events and stuff like that. So, I really don’t think about it until I’m like man, wait, these parents are around my age so they know about everything I’m doing and saying. So I’m like I got to take a step back.”
Derrick Lewis Pleased to Learn More About His Next Opponent
While Derrick Lewis is focusing on being more mindful outside the cage, his characteristic approach to preparing for opponents remains largely unchanged.
`The Black Beast` is known for often knowing very little about the fighters he faces. However, in the interview, he did mention he was aware Tallison Teixeira is a 6’7″ Brazilian.
What pleasantly surprised him was learning that Teixeira is also primarily a striker who has not attempted a single takedown in his UFC appearances so far.
“Oh good. What? A Brazilian striker? That’s rare.”
