Rogério “Minotouro” Nogueira returns to the octagon, this Saturday (26), to face the undefeated North American Phil Davis. The fight will be the main attraction of UFC Fight Night 24, an event to be held in Seattle, in the United States. Initially cast to face Tito Ortiz, the Brazilian had his opponent alternated due to a cut on the former champion's head. Despite the change of opponent, Rogério states that he has not changed his training for combat and says he is ready for the duel.
“I had been preparing for the Tito Ortiz. He's a veteran athlete, coming off a defeat, but he's a tough guy... Phil Davis He comes from wrestling and has a similar game to Tito, but his takedowns are a little different. On the ground, he works jiu-jitsu and not just ground and pound (punches from above in ground fighting) like Tito,” said Minotouro. “I'm there to fight anyone, to face the best”, added the Brazilian.
Despite facing a less experienced fighter with only eight fights in his career, the Brazilian black belt, who has only 23 appearances in his record, including 19 wins, believes he will not be a favorite in the fight
“I don't think that in a fight like this I don't have a favorite. The technical level is very high and athletes cannot make mistakes. I'm focused on doing my best and using my experience as I know a little about his game”, stated Minotouro, who hopes to win again to be among the best in the light heavyweight category, as he is coming off a defeat to Ryan bader at UFC 119.
“I want to be among the best in the rankings. If I put up a good fight against the Phil DavisAs I'm hoping, I'm going to return to the top with all my might and have a great year in 2011”, he concluded.
Check out the complete UFC Fight Night 24 card below, which in addition to Rogério Minotouro will have another Brazilian in action: Mário Miranda will face off against Aaron Simpson.
Main Card
Rogério “Minotouro” Nogueira vs. Phil Davis
Dan Hardy vs. Anthony Johnson;
DaMarques Johnson vs. Amir Sadollah;
Leonard Garcia vs. Chan sung jung;
Preliminary Card
Alex Caceres vs. Mackens Semerzier;
Jon Madsen vs. Mike Russow;
John Hathaway vs. Kris McCray;
Edwin Figueroa vs. MichaelMcDonald;
Sean McCorkle vs. Christian Morecraft;
Mario Miranda vs. Aaron Simpson;
John hendricks vs. TJ Waldburger;
Nik lentz vs. Waylon Lowe;
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