Luke Rockhold: I Am One Of The Most Dangerous Men In This Division
Former Strikeforce middleweight champion Luke Rockhold is still looking for his first UFC win after his now-infamous failed debut against Vitor Belfort at last May’s UFC on FX 8. Rockhold has a chance to redeem himself in just a few short hours when he faces Costa Philippou in the main event of tonight’s UFC Fight Night 35 in Duluth, Georgia.
The loss to Belfort was disheartening, but to be fair Rockhold was merely one of “The Phenom’s” three headkick victims last year. He’ll receive a step down in competition against the No. 10 Philippou.
In a look at tonight’s headliner courtesy of UFC.com, Rockhold spoke his belief that he’s still near the top of the 185-pound food chain. The well-rounded Rockhold also focused on how he’s going to defeat talented boxer Philippou:
“I know where I stand. I am one of the most dangerous men in this division. I have the tools to be beat anybody. I’m one of the most well-rounded guys. I’m taller. My wrestling’s better, my jiu-jitsu‘s better, my kickboxing is better, and I don’ lack any heart and determination, I can guarantee you that. Costa’s a great boxer, he’s got skills everywhere, but I’m going to beat him up, and I’m not going to stop until the ref pulls me off. I plan on finishing him early and getting me a ‘Knockout of the Night’ bonus.”
Philippou was quick to heap praise upon Rockhold, but also noted that he has the advantage in several key areas, as well:
“”I think with Luke Rockhold, he’s dangerous everywhere. But I’m up to the challenge and I’m stronger, I’m faster, and my technique is better. And I want it more. I can’t predict the future, but I know I can knock out everybody.”
Indeed Philippou does have the power to end any middleweight’s night early. Rockhold should be too smart to engage him too much on the feet. If he does, Rockhold will attempt to keep Philippou at length with his range of kicks, going for a takedown that transitions into a fight-ending submission hold. Both fighters appear motivated for their own reasons, so UFC Fight Night’s 35 main event should be a war. Who will keep their relavancy in the crowded UFC middleweight division?
