Carla Krys – Brasil Combate
Rousimar Palhares is set to face Alessio Sakara at UFC 101, on August 8th. “Toquinho” talked to Carla Krys – Brasil Combate reporter – about his next opponent.
“He has already trained here (BTT) and came from boxing. We have worked for all possible moments in the fight and the strategy that I have in mind. Sakara is a great fighter because the UFC has the best fighters in the world and he is in there, right?”
About the discussions existent over Murilo Bustamante retirement, Palhares said the headmaster has sufficient conditions to keep himself in the sport “He was a long time on the sidelines but I don’t think so, he doesn’t have to retire. He trains well, makes everything well-done and eats healthy food. He still has a good time ahead of him.”
Rousimar wasn’t at Brazilian Top Team when the academy had heavy rivalry at Chute Boxe. One of the crucial members of that war was Wanderlei Silva, who is going to move down to 185lbs after his next challenge against Rich Franklin at UFC 99, which will be the first time the organization visits Germany.
Toquinho commented “I think it is great because I am a huge fan of him and enjoy watching his fights. It would be hard to face off with him but we have to act like professionals, right? It would be interesting but I like him so much… I’m a real fan of Wand.”
There are no differences about fighting either in the ring or octagon for Palhares. What really matters is going in there. The Brazilian black belt picked out two of his favourite fights and his idol was quoted in both “Wanderlei Silva vs Quinton Jackson (PRIDE) and Wanderlei Silva vs Chuck Liddell (UFC).”
Of course Palhares would accept any match but the respect is clear where Silva is concerned. “I’m not daring him, you know, but it is going to be an honour if UFC put us to square off each other. I watched Wand for a long time. Many people will not like it but I’m his fan.”
The BTT fighter doesn’t feel comfortable stating who he would choose as an opponent from his division. “It may sound arrogant,” he says. “So I fight whoever UFC order.”
Source: http://www.brasilcombate.com.br
