Shogun in photo by Josh Hedges
Since undergoing knee surgery and spending a long spell away from the octagon, the current light heavyweight champion of the UFC is back to training wholeheartedly. Still somewhat limited in movement, Mauício Shogun nevertheless is already training for his return to combat. Watching closely all the goings on in his division in the UFC, Shogun breaks down the fight between his last opponent, Lyoto Machida, and Quinton Jackson, another who has figured as number one in the light heavyweight division in the past. Check out what the champ had to say to GRACIEMAG.com:
How’s training going?
Everything’s under control, it all went according to plan. It’s been five months and a week since the operation, so enough time has passed and I’m back in training. I can’t do everything one hundred percent yet, but I’m already going at it strong.
What has this time away been like? What did you do to keep up to date?
I spent many hours in physiotherapy and I made the most of the time to be with my family and my daughter, who turned ten months old yesterday. But I was going to the gym to watch training the whole time. Now I’m back to training, so I’m happy.
Shogun in one of his two fights against Lyoto. Photo: Josh Hedges
Lyoto will face Rampage this Saturday at UFC 123. What do you expect for this bout between ex-champions?
They are two top athletes. Lyoto is really good and it’s hard to pick up on his game. Rampage is really strong, has a dangerous hook. But I feel Lyoto will win this one. Either way, it’s a fight I want to watch.
Have you started studying your likely next opponent Rashad Evans yet?
I haven’t focused on anyone yet, if just because the fight with Rashad isn’t confirmed yet. But it should be against him, there’s a good likelihood. That’s why I’m training normally for anybody. A month and a half out from the fight, I’ll start focusing on it.
Are you anxious to get back in there?
I’m taking it easy, no pressure. I’d like to say how my fans are my true motivation. I’ll give my best to get in the octagon and pay them back for all the affection I’ve received from them all this time I’ve been away.