By Guilherme Cruz

Photo Josh Hedges

Last Saturday was a special night for the Brazilian fans. Watching the “underdog” Maurício “Shogun” Rua knocking the former UFC champion Chuck Liddell out in the UFC 97 co-main event was great, but the Brazilian doesn’t want to celebrate too much. After the fight, Shogun already thinks about coming back to training and his next challenge.

“Since the start I was very motivated, and it was important. I’ve trained hard, very focused, more prepared physically and mentally, so I got there ready to show my work and everything I’ve trained”, says Shogun, pleased to introduce himself to the American fans. “Actually, I haven’t had fight well in the UFC, so I knew I needed to show my potential to the American fans, and it all depended on me. I wasn’t easy, but I could show them… I’ll train even more to keep this focus”.

Going to a two weeks trip with his wife to relax, the Brazilian put his UFC future in his manager’s hands, but gives some tips to the matchmaker Joe Silva. “Nobody spoke yet (about my next fight), but my goal is to win the next one. I’m already focused for the next fight. I’ll fight anyone, but a rematch (with Forrest Griffin) would be welcome. He’s a good fighter and it’d be a good fight. I’ll fight anyone, but it’d be cool to fight him again, I’d love it”.

About the main event of the evening, Rua doesn’t criticize Anderson Silva about his performance. “The truth is that Anderson did the right thing, he fought well and didn’t get too much exposed. If he goes inside from the beginning, Thales would have more chances, and Thales waited for Anderson. Anderson managed his goal, the victory”, finished Shogun, in exclusive interview to TATAME.com.