'Dragon' Lyoto's opponent, CB Dollaway carries his rival's symbol on his back

Dollaway's only tattoo is a dragon, the nickname of his opponent Machida. Photo: Lucas Carrano/SUPER FIGHTS

It can be said that UFC Barueri, which will be held next Saturday (20), at the José Corrêa gym, will see a dragon duel in the main fight. That's because Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida, former UFC light heavyweight champion, will face off in the octagon against CB Dollaway, who, interestingly enough, has a dragon as his only tattoo.

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At a press conference in preparation for the event, the American, who, unlike some other fighters, is discreet about tattoos, explained the design he has on his right shoulder. “I only have one tattoo, which I got a long time ago, and it happens to be a dragon. I don’t even remember which shoulder it’s on,” he said.

Dollaway's focus is on Saturday's fight, in which he believes that, if he wins, he will be able to qualify for the middleweight belt. “I don't see why [a win] wouldn't put me as the next challenger. He put up a great fight against Chris Weidman and is a former champion. I had some victories against fighters from top 10 and, despite stealing the fight against Tim Boetsch, I was supposed to be on a five-fight winning streak”, he commented.

“It’s the biggest challenge, the biggest fight of my career. He's not an easy fight for anyone, especially being in Brazil – I don't think anyone would accept this challenge, but I showed up and came. If I win the fight, I should be rewarded for that”, continued the fighter, who has already fought twice in Brazil and won, against Cezar Mutant e Daniel sarafian.

Dollaway assured that he did everything to prepare for Lyoto's unique style and is confident that the fight will please the audience in the gym. “There was different training for Lyoto and because it was a five-round fight. Obviously, he's a difficult guy to face, he's a puzzle that needs to be solved. But I have one of the best striking coaches and one of the best teams, so I have a good strategy. I want to get there and provide an exciting fight. The fans will like it,” he said.

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