After Rafael Lovato’s injury, Yuri Simões will now face American sensation Keenan Cornelius at Metamoris 5,held on November 22 in California.

The pairt have faced each other twice this year alone. Cornelius defeated Simoes 4-0 at Five Grappling, held earlier this year, and the Brazilian won by points in the absolute final World No-Gi, in October.

The match will be in the Gi.

On his Facebook fan page, Yuri talked about his reaction when he heard the news:

On Saturday I woke up very disappointed. Not because Lovato is injured. Injuries happen, although I don’t get along that well with Lovato, I respect him as a person and athlete. I wish him a speed recovery.

I was disappointed because I thought I lost the opportunity to show everyone my style of jiu jitsu. Today I am no longer disappointed. I don’t know the last time keenan was submitted but I do know I’m going to try my best. What I guarantee is that anyone watching the match will not forget it!!

 

In an interview with tatame, Yuri talked about the last minute replacement, his current form and how he doesn’t fear Keenan’s worm guard citing the entry of Keenan last minute in the duel.

“This match will be in the Gi so it’s different than last time. In No-Gi there are other rules and the game is different, diffrent positions. But regardless of the strategy, I feel very confident in my Jiu-Jitsu and that is what has differentiated me, ”

“A change of opponent at the last minute is never good. But on the other hand, I was training so hard that it makes no difference. I learned of the change two weeks before the fight. In Jiu-Jitsu tournamnets, you get to know who your opponent will be only hours before.”

About Keenan’s game:

“I don’t know, but he can use that to sweep with the lapel guard and fall into good positions. I hope he does, because it is his main weapon. I’ll be prepared for anything. ”

“I medalhei in all competions that competed this year. I won the Pan, the World No-Gi … The BJJ community  knows me more now, but I’ve already been training hard for a long time. I think I’m at the beginning of my career. Although I will reach my peak. My evolution is due to several factors. I’ve been training better and Caio Terra has helped me to correct several errors in my Jiu-Jitsu. Besides, I’m more experienced. I’ve been competing since I was 15 years old. I’m still evolving, “