"I know Rashad’s a super-strategic fighter, is good at wrestling, good at boxing, and hits real hard. But I’ve already fought a lot of guys like that. And this is just another fight for me. I can’t let myself think this is some seven-headed monster, I’m going to get out there and do my job. I think that’s what’s important. That’s the mentality that will make me stronger."
-- Undefeated light heavyweight Lyoto Machida talks to GracieMag.com about his upcoming title fight against reigning 205-pound champion "Sugar" Rashad Evans at UFC 98 on May 23. "Dragon" -- who has six wins, including two finishes inside the Octagon -- has patiently waited for his opportunity to become a world champion. And it came earlier this week when Quinton "Rampage" Jackson had to pass on fighting Evans because of nagging injuries. The Brazilian most recently upped his stock with a fantastic finish of the previously unbeaten Thiago Silva at UFC 94: "St. Pierre vs. Penn 2" on Jan. 31. He'll know look to stifle the juking and jiving champion in the main event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Can he do it ... or will Evans somehow find a way to solve the enigma that is Lyoto Machida? For the record: Machida is currently a very heavy favorite among the sportsbooks to win the fight.
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