"I was nervous [against Kenny Florian]. Now when I look back I think I wasn't even ready mentally. The point is it is not how he fought, but it is how I couldn't fight the way I always fight. Since the 'fight rules' are different I was cautious and while I was watching him he dragged me into his pace. I should have fought in my own style ... I am studying now [for Clay Guida]. But first, my concentration is to prepare my body and practice hard to be in best condition knowing this fight is going to be even tougher [than my last fight against Tyson Griffin] ... Of course, I want to have a chance for the title match, but I know that passage will only be seen after I concentrate on each fight. First, I will concentrate on my next fight. I want to give the best New Year’s show to my fans!"
Former PRIDE Lightweight Champion Takanori Gomi tells Derek Bolender that "Fireball" fans can expect a good show from him at UFC 125 on Jan. 1 in Las Vegas. The Japanese superstar, who evened his Octagon record to 1-1 by stiffening Tyson Griffin back in August, takes on the relentless Clay Guida to move himself into position for a 2011 title run. Can Gomi, who was once considered one of the greatest lightweights in MMA, recapture his past glory? Or will the "Carpenter" saw through him like a piece of dried mokuzai? Predictions on the 155-pound war, por favor.
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