StarBulletin.com

Maui's Grove fighting to keep career alive


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POSTED: Thursday, August 06, 2009

There's enough pressure already every time a fighter steps foot into the cage.

So why add more?

In his last two fights, Maui's Kendall Grove (12-5, 5-2 UFC) was in must-win situations.

Comments from UFC President Dana White before both bouts suggested a loss would mean the end of his UFC career.

Grove was victorious both times, including a 92-second TKO of Jason Day in March.

But in mixed martial arts, everything hinges on your most recent fight, and at the end of the day, his future depends on the people he works for.

“;It's however (the UFC) wakes up, and if they don't like you, they going to put you in check,”; Grove said. “;I want to end my career with the UFC; only a stupid man wouldn't. But I wouldn't put that pressure on me again.”;

He says his mind is clear as he heads into a showdown Saturday night against jiujitsu specialist Ricardo Almeida (10-3, 3-3). Almeida is 2-1 in the UFC since returning to the company last year after a six-year hiatus.

“;I want to fight the best and this is a good test to see where I'm at,”; Grove said. “;Main thing for me is to mature in this sport and I think Ricardo is a good test for me.”;