Lyoto Machida vs. Mauricio "Shogun" RuaFinally, the Dragon has his first title defense. After knocking out the once-undefeated Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida has a chance to become one of the most feared light heavyweight champions of all-time. The era of Chuck Liddell and his looping punches is over. Machida represents the new breed of MMA. Much like fellow champions GSP and Anderson Silva, Lyoto is well-versed in all areas of the sport. However what’s more important is his tactical approach to fighting. Lyoto frustrates the hell out of his opponents by not giving them any openings. It’s like he doesn’t want to fight! Forrest Griffin would hate to fight Machida. In fact, it’s a point Forrest has confessed to on occasion. Of course, Machida loves to engage, but only when he damn well feels like it. As for Shogun, he’s going to need a performance of a lifetime to win the title. It’s true that he had a great run in PRIDE. However there’s nothing in his UFC run that indicates he can beat a fighter like Machida. He’s had one good performance in the past two years – his most recent bout against Liddell. That was great. But, Machida is a much different fighter than Liddell. Plus, Chuck was no longer in prime condition. That’s why Dana won’t let him fight any more. Normally, a title shot is considered a great opportunity. It’s something to be thankful for. However in this case, it’s more like Shogun won the fool’s lottery. Or maybe it’s that no one else wanted to fight Machida. Rashad already had his chance to slay the dragon. As for Quinton Jackson, he just quit the sport entirely. Rampage would rather drive in the slow lane than fight Machida. Getting back to Shogun – he just doesn’t have the style to beat Machida. He’s an aggressive striker, similar to Thiago Silva. Machida beat Silva quite soundly. Then again…Machida has beaten all of his opponents in decisive fashion! So, who does have a good style to defeat him? Well, the only time Machida has been in danger was when Tito Ortiz put him in a triangle choke. Yikes…I didn’t expect that conclusion. Next Fight: Cain Velasquez vs. Ben Rothwell
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