From left to right: Braddock, Minotouro and Pliev train at Team Nogueira. Photo: Disclosure
After more than a year away from fighting, Rogério Minotouro will return to the UFC on July 26th, against the dangerous Anthony Johnson. And, to prepare for the challenge that lies ahead, the Brazilian veteran has two fundamental pieces in his training: wrestler Khetag Pliev and kickboxer Anderson Braddock.
Born in Russia, but representing Canada, Pliev was a fundamental part of Minotouro's training in his last fight, when he defeated Rashad evans. Braddock is one of the main strikers from Brazil today, currently competing in the Glory event.
Minotouro believes that the level of his training will be crucial to a good performance against Johnson. “Khetag and Braddock are two great additions to my camp. They are two top-tier athletes in their respective sports. Khetag is very strong and can develop me very well in terms of wrestling, he was a fundamental part of my preparation against Rashad evans. Braddock is one of the best strikers of the world. He's a very aggressive and fast guy for his size. Training with a guy at that level will improve my Muay Thai a lot. In addition to mine camp, they come to join all the athletes from Team Nogueira. It’s been great, and we hope to finish this preparation in the best possible way and return to the Octagon very well,” said Minotouro.
The fighter, who recently turned 38 years old, praised Johnson. “He is on a good run and people were impressed with his victory over Phil Davis. He was very aggressive and surprised a very strong athlete in the category. I think this is good and a great challenge for me. I am well motivated and confident to make a good return”, he concluded.
Minotouro's last fight in the UFC was in February 2013, and the occasion also marked a period of more than a year away – his penultimate performance, against Tito Ortiz, was in December 2011. In six fights in the UFC, Minotouro has four wins and two losses – for Ryan bader e Phil Davis.
Comments