After impressing with a knockout over Fabricio Werdum in his UFC debut, Junior Cigano is preparing for his third appearance for the organization. On August 29, the Brazilian knockout artist will face Justin McCully, who is coming off a win over Eddie Sanchez. On the same evening, Cigano’s team leader, Rodrigo Minotauro, will also see action.
On the match-up between Mino and Couture, a historic bout, the fighter didn’t think twice in giving his prediction. Check out the chat the fighter had with Portal das Lutas, GRACIEMAG.com partner site.
Portal das Lutas – How are your preparations for the fight going?
Junior Cigano – It’s the same old work being done, I’ve been training for this fight for a month already, and it’ll take place August 29, at UFC 102. The first part of my preparations I’ve been doing here in Rio, training a lot of grappling and wrestling, and on the 15th I’ll take off for the States to help Rodrigo (Minotauro). We’re training a lot to go into the bout in good shape.
PDL – What do you know about Justin McCully?
JC – I’ve watched a few of his fights and some folks who know him told me of some of his characteristics. He’s a black belt, tough, has a wrestling background and good striking, as his brother’s a boxer. I’ll try and do what I always do, seek to strike and use my boxing. I hope to have a great bout and, God willing, get the knockout.
PDL – On the same evening your teammate Rodrigo Minotauro will face Randy Couture. His last fights were not so good…
JC – Unfortunately, as everyone saw, he was going through a rough patch. But it was just a bad phase, that’s all. I think a lot of folks ended up forgetting who Minotauro is. H’s a phenomenon, one of Brazil’s greatest representatives. He will be back full blast and I’m certain he’s going to surprise everyone. He’s going to impress everyone again by beating Randy Couture convincingly.
PDL – How is he looking for this challenge?
JC – I’ve spoken with him. He’s in San Diego, training hard, doing his physical preparations and has lost weight. He told me he in the best shape of his life. I’m going to help him, I’m sure it’ll be a great match, but I believe he will win by submission or knockout.
PDL – What can fans expect from you in your next challenge?
JC – I’m training a lot, doing my part and believing a lot, as do my trainers. I’m confident I’ll have a good result and everyone can expect the fight to be a war. It won’t be easy for him and I’m going for the knockout, as always.
