27.12.2008 Minotauro post-weigh-in exclusiveBrazilian comments on strategy for beating Mir
Nalty Jr., GRACIEMAG.com collaborator
Rodrigo Minotauro has been through many great challenges in his career. The star from the days of Pride now shines in the UFC. The fame garnered on the The Ultimate Fighter reality show has made him into one of the most beloved athletes in the American organization. So much so that he was applauded as he weighed in for UFC 92, which will take place tonight, in Las Vegas.
After stepping off the scale, Minotauro spoke with Nalty Jr, special GRACIEMAG.com envoy to the world capital of the fight sport.
Are you ready for your fight with Frank Mir?
I’m going very well. We trained a lot here in Las Vegas. We arrived here 15 days early, I’m very focused, which is very important before a fight. The whole team is here, I’m in good shape standing and on the ground. I’m very confident.
Do you consider this to be one of the most important fights of your career?
It’s a tough fight, a good adversary, a guy who’s good on the ground. I have to prove how good I am on the ground. It’s a fight leading up to the definitive title holder. If I win this fight, in June the unification bout will take place, so I will be able to bring the title back to Brazil once and for all.
What is it like being recognized by the fans?
I’m much more well-known in the USA now after the reality show. For sure the show was fundamental in that happening. Everyone liked the way I treated the folks in the house. They also liked my posture of making everyone train and not letting them mess around, doing silly pranks. And the proof of that is the result. We had great champions and the public was cognizant of all the work.
What is your strategy for this fight?
I’m going to do my game. I’ll be aggressive in all positions, hit the whole time. I’m not going to give him much time to think. I think he has good ground skills, but the crowd will see MMA Jiu-Jitsu. That’s my strategy for this fight.
How long did you prepare for this?
In all I’ve been training for four months. I had to stop a few times due to injury. But thank God it all worked out.
Do you have a message for your fans?
I want to thank them, say thank you for all the support, all the affection they’ve shown me. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve fought, but I will fight with the same determination as always. Best wishes to all and thanks so much.
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