Gray Maynard: I wanted to test myself at the time. I heard the UFC was having trouble trying to get an opponent for him, so I asked them for the fight. I thought I matched up really well against Frank. Thankfully that was also the time I got with my boxing coach Gil Martinez. He was really the key factor in helping me with my boxing and the game plan I needed for the fight. My wrestling was already there; I just needed to make a couple adjustments with my stand up. Unfortunately, I broke my hand in the first round, so I was really able to get my offense going the way I wanted, but I did implement some of the defense we workedon.

FiveKnuckles.com: You recently beat Roger Huerta in what to date was your toughest challenge. How do you feel about your performance in that fight? And what from that experience will you use in future fights?

Gray Maynard: Roger definitely came to the fight prepared. He's a very tough competitor, I really had to stick to the game plan we had. I think it was a good performance, a lot of his punches came from weird angles so I really had to stay sharp and get my 2 or 3 punches in, then move out before he had a chance get any of his offense going. I think with every fight you gain experience that carries over into the next fight. It's always important to learn and evolve every time you compete. You can always break the fight down and pick out some things to improve on. With that fight I picked out some things with my Jujitsu and my stand up game that I need to work on. But it's always a work in progress. This sport changes everyday, it's important that I change and evolve constantly also.

FiveKnuckles.com: You are undefeated and considered to be in the hunt for a title shot,
do you think you are ready to fight for the light weight title?

Gray Maynard: Right now, I'm focused on my fight with Nate Diaz on January 11th. I need to put all my focus on him. If I keep working hard and winning, the title will take care of itself. I know that when it's my time for a title shot I'll give it everything I've got and more.

FiveKnuckles.com: Were you surprised that B.J. Penn was able to manhandle Diego Sanchez?

Gray Maynard: I think Diego was a great challenge for BJ. He has the heart and desire to push the pace for five rounds. But, BJ is very talented and tough to beat when he is focused and ready to fight. BJ proved that he is a dominant champ and is very tough to beat at 155.

FiveKnuckles.com: If you beat Nate Diaz, do you think that you will be next in line to fight Penn for the Lightweight Title?

Gray Maynard: Like I said before, I'm focused on Nate Diaz and what I need to do to beat him.

FiveKnuckles.com: Who is your favorite fighter to watch?

Gray Maynard: I personally like to watch all fights, I'm definitely a fight fan!! Anderson Silva, GSP, Thiago Alves, Lyoto Machida, Randy Couture are all fun to watch....