Paulo Filho :: TATAME

WEC middleweight champion, Paulo Filho was ready to face Chael Sonnen for the second time, but hurricane Ike forced the promoters to postpone the event to November 5th. Back to Brazil, Filho spoke to TATAME about the frustration, Rousimar Palhares’ loss to Dan Henderson, analyzed the UFC light-heavyweight category and sends a message for those who still have a doubt in his new phase and weight problems… Check below the exclusive interview with Paulo Filho.

What did you think about WEC’s postponement?

Nothing happens without God’s permission. I was ready, strong and focused, and this hurricane prejudiced me, but that’s ok. Now I’ll continue training hard to be even more prepared in November.

How was your preparation for this fight?

I was 100%, I came from a bad time and was really well, training hard and ready to fight.

And what about your weight?

I was with the right weight this time. Andre Benkei helped me a lot and on the first day I lost 5kg, it was easy. This problem is past.

Do you think about going to light-heavyweight division?

My weight isn’t this, but I have a contract to do and maybe later I’ll think about going to 205lbs.

You fought only one time in 2008… Does it frustrate you?

If I could choose change something I’d do it, but I’m an employee and I have to do what they want. If I could choose I would have fight more, would be at 205, but what they decide for me is good.

What do you think about Palhares’ loss to Dan Hendeson?

These things happen. Dan Hendeson is a very expert fighter, fights for a long time and fought the toughest guys, but “Toquinho” it way better than him, but felt a little his experience. This loss was a “good thing” for him to see that. He has talent to be very successful, and everybody saw that Toquinho could won that fight. It won’t change his successful career he’ll have.

Do you think there’s anyone to beat Anderson Silva?

Anderson has proven that he’s unbeatable in this division, and fought tough guys and makes it looks easy, and I really think this division is his and he’s the man to be defeated.

How do you see UFC’s light-weight division?

I think that MMA level nowadays, in this division, shows is a lot equal. In my opinion is a lottery. The 205 man has a tougher hand, and you have to do you game to win. Chuck Liddell was surprised by Rashad Evans, he put that punch and congratulations for him.

Do you think Wanderlei has chances to get this belt?

Wanderlei has a tough hand and if he hits you, you’ll definitely go down, he’s a champion.

How do you see Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in this division?

Shogun is an young man, has a lot of time to fight and I think he has everything to be between the tops, just do the right training and learn to fight in the octagon. He has everything to get over this bad time and be the old Shogun again.

Do you think Ricardo Arona still has space in this division?

Arona is unbeatable in this division. He’s the best and is studying some thing to come back and, when he comes back, he won’t lose for anybody.