Back in high spirits since his convincing win over Forrest Griffin at UFC Rio, Mauricio Shogun is already preparing to get back to the front of the line for a shot at recoverubg the title that was once his. The next rung up that ladder comes November 19, when he takes on Dan Henderson at UFC 139.
This time, the opponent he’s set to face has special significance to him. After all, as with Shogun himself, Henderson made history while fighting in the rings of Japan.
”This is a fight that could have happened a long time ago, at Pride. I’m overjoyed to have the chance to compete against him at such an important time in our careers,” says Shogun.
Known to be cordial fellow when not in the ring, Shogun has nothing but praise for his rival. “Henderson is a legend of the sport. His career speaks for itself, and being able to compete at the top level for so long is proof of what kind of fighter he is. Every time Henderson fights, like me, he pushes the pace and always goes for the finish. That’s why I expect a tough fights, one the fans will love,” he adds.