Fatherhood motivates Grant before UFC 160

Grant went on Twitter to refute suggestions of a payoff by UFC president Dana White. AP

When TJ Grant takes on Gray Maynard in a UFC lightweight title eliminator at UFC 160 next Saturday, he won’t just be fighting for a belt or paycheque.

Grant became a father in April with the birth of his daughter and the Cole Harbour, N.S., native says the new edition to his family has motivated him while preparing for Maynard.

If Grant can get past Maynard he is guaranteed a title shot against Benson Henderson, and even though he’s getting asked about the current champion often, Grant isn’t putting any thought towards that potential matchup.

“I’m not even going to think about Benson,” Grant told UFC Central Radio on Sportsnet 590 The Fan Thursday.

“I don’t like to look past anyone. … Why would I overlook the toughest guy I’ve fought.”

TJ Grant’s interview with Showdown Joe

Also on the latest episode of UFC Central Radio: Canadian UFC welterweight Chris Clements and Bleacher Report MMA analyst Duane Finley.

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