More than just a fight, the bout between Mauricio Shogun and Mark Coleman, set for January 17, at UFC 93 – Dublin, will be to settle an old score. The wounds have been left open since February of 2006, when after a takedown attempt by the American, Shogun suffered a fractured arm. With the northerner handed the win, followed by his celebration while still in the ring, a scuffle broke out between Coleman’s crew and the members of Chute Boxe who were accompanying the Brazilian. Ever since, insults were exchanged publicly, and threats of vengeance were made by both parties.
NOCAUTE brought collaborator Nalty Jr into action to contact Coleman in the United States and produced an historic interview. Candidly, the UFC Hall of Famer toughed on the subject of the controversial rivalry with Chute Boxe, analyzed his professional career and recalled his trip to Brazil.
Check out a few excerpt from the interview now on newsstands across Brazil in NOCAUTE magazine.
What is your recollection of the first Pride event? How did your life change after conquering your first GP in Japan?
Fighting in Japan was too much. I was practically counted out by everyone, but I still believed. The answer to most of the problems one faces is hard work, really hard work. That was how I went into the Pride GP to win. If you look at my reaction after winning the title, it was really emotional. My life changed and I earned more respect as a fighter. My confidence grew.
Who’s the toughest athlete you’ve faced?
The toughest guy I’ve faced was Fedor Emelianenko [the Russion submitted Coleman with an armbar on two occasions in Pride, in 2004 and 2006]. Coming second is Rodrigo Minotauro [Minotauro submitted him at Pride 16].
What do you think of the Brazilian invasion in the UFC?
I always had a lot of respect for Brazilian fighters. They always showed a lot of heart, courage and hunger for the win. Now they are all much more well rounded in MMA and couple that with their talent. That’s why I’m not surprised Brazil is so well represented on the scene. That’s life.
