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UFC Quick Quote: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira pleads with Rich Franklin to wait for him

"I've injured my neck, unfortunately I couldn't train anymore. I couldn't move, so I went to see the doctor and he thought it was best if I postponed the fight. I was training with Feijao and he fit me a triangle choke. I defended myself, but I got injured. Feijao has a leg the size of a hippo (laughs). I can't wait to fight him... Please, Rich Franklin, wait for me (laughs). Don't let me with no opponent (laughs). When I fought Sokoudjou (in Pride) I had a neck injury and I was defeated, so I won't risk it anymore. It was an exciting fight for me, it'd strike, trade punches... I was disappointed, it was a big fight for me, but now I only fight when I'm 100% good to go, and this injury was pretty serious."

-- Antonio Rogerio Nogueira raps with Tatame.com on his recent injury and future wishes. Tonight's UFC 133: "'Evans vs. Ortiz 2" pay-per-view broadcast was supposed to feature Nogueira vs. Rich Franklin in the co-main event of the evening before "Little Nog" went down with his neck issues. Having lost consecutive fights, it would have been do or die for "Minotoro," who has struggled mightily since making his way to the world's largest fight promotion. Franklin has also been in a slump, losing three of his last five fights. The match-up won't play a major role in the division title picture but will help to trim some of the fat. Still want to see this fight, Maniacs? Or would you rather they move on and find fresh opposition for both fighters?

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