Ricardo Arona. Photo: Carlos Eduardo Ozório
Fabrício Werdum has the biggest challenge of his career ahead of him. On June 26 the Brazilian faces off against Fedor Emelianenko at Strikeforce. One who’s had the experience before is Ricardo Arona, back in December of 2000, when he faced the Russian in Japan’s Rings promotion. Arona lost a decision contested by many, but it’s worth remembering how Rings had special – not to say confusing – rules. Regardless, the beast from the city of Niteroi has some useful information he wants to share with Fabrício.
“Fedor is most dangerous at mid-range. He’s really dangerous there, either standing or on the ground. You need to close the distance at the right time for the takedown. When the time comes, you need to get close up, never at mid-range,” the fighter told the Brazilian MMA magazine NOCAUTE.
As a main weapon, Arona has faith in Werdum’s Jiu-Jitsu, which bore him victory at the last installment of the ADCC.
“The ground is really where Fedor is most fragile, especially if he is on the bottom,” he wagers.
For more about what Werdum expects in the fight and further pointers from Arona, get your copy of NOCAUTE magazine (if you are in Brazil).
If you wish to see for yourself Arona’s showdown with Fedor, check out the video below: