Houston Native Derrick Lewis Assists Flood Victims Affected by Hurricane Harvey
Derrick Lewis has an upcoming fight with Fabricio Werdum at UFC 216 on Oct. 7, but his main priority Monday was helping those in his hometown affected by the wrath of Hurricane Harvey.
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“I didn’t like what I heard on the news,” Lewis told UFC.com. “They said the police officers are not going to go out and rescue anyone. They’re telling us not to call 911 unless it’s a life or death situation. And I didn’t like hearing that.
“There was a lot of guys out there, just going back and forth
taking turns and going to each house, and rescuing everyone,” he
continued. “It was close to my house, so I said I’ll help.”
Lewis, who has lived in Houston since 1998 after moving from New Orleans, said his family and house have been spared thus far, but flooding gets bad in the areas approximately a mile away from where he lives. The 32-year-old said he was prepared for the worst when he initially learned of Hurricane Harvey’s impending arrival.
“They gave us a few days so I was prepared for it,” he said. “I’ve got plenty of food, plenty of water, a generator and medical supplies. And I had just installed an indoor gym in the house, so I’ve been working out on that.”
Lewis initially hinted at retirement following his last bout, a fourth-round TKO loss to Mark Hunt at UFC Fight Night 110 on June 10. However, he changed course and has been booked to face Werdum in a featured bout at UFC 216. Before facing Hunt, Lewis authored a six-fight winning streak that placed him on the short list of heavyweight contenders. During his work on Monday, Lewis says he met a few fight fans along the way.
“They couldn’t believe I lived that close to them all this time, he said. “I just love the people. It’s the culture of Houston.”
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