Exclusive: John Makdessi Talks About His Complex Nature and Connection with Duke Roufus Following UFC on Fox Victory

UFC veteran John Makdessi dominated the always tough Ross Pearson en route to a unanimous decision victory at UFC on Fox 30.

Following the bout, Makdessi spoke to Fightful’s James Lynch about the changes he’s made since moving to Roufus Sport.

“Today, people saw the maturity of John Makdessi. I’m more mature — I’m 33. Unfortunately, it took me some time, it took me eight years to grow. It’s not easy to figure things out. I don’t come from a fighting family. I had a lot of trial and error. I’m a very emotional guy. I’m a very complex creature.”

Elaborating on his complex nature and the bond he shares with Duke Roufus, Makdessi said, “Duke brought back the confidence. Some people don’t understand my style, my character, my mentality. What makes Duke so special is not only that he comes from a karate tactile background and his father was in martial arts, (Rick Roufus) world champion, Duke muay-thai champion. It makes things easier for me because they understand.”

Makdessi wasn’t throwing his old team under the bus, but continued to praise his current coach and the connection he’s formed with him.

“A lot of coaches do not understand the fighter. (Duke) is very passionate and he really loves you. I feel it too. Fighters is all about emotion. We feel things. We’re not stupid. Animal instincts. We know when someone is faking it and we know when someone is genuine. Duke is very genuine. He does everything from the heart.”

The Nova Scotia native continued by stating that he believes the structured nature of Roufus Sport has led to the team’s success inside the Octagon.

Makdessi also heaped praise on his opponent saying, “I never throw so much shots at a guy and he kept coming forward.”

Makdessi has now won two straight and three out of his last four. He told other members of the media that he’s looking to be in title contention within the next two years and wants top 10 guys.

You can see Fightful’s playlist of UFC Calgary interviews at this link.