Shogun Rua Wants to Coach TUF, Interested in Facing Lyoto Machida Again

Although his bout with Quntion "Rampage" Jackson is currently on hold, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua is still interested in pursuing other matchups, including a third bout with Lyoto Machida. The two light heavyweights previously met at UFC 104 and UFC 113, respectively.

Machida walked away with the controversial split-decision in their first meeting, while Rua would rebound and knock out "The Dragon" in their second encounter to win the UFC light heavyweight title.

Rua told Brazilian website Portal Vale Tudo (Translated via MMAMania.com) that he is willing to face Machida after a coaching stint opposite of the Japanese-Brazilian on "The Ultimate Fighter". 

"Of course it is my great desire to do a TUF, which is a program where people see everything that passes the fighter," Rua said. "Lyoto would make it even more interesting, is a top category, and consider how good this third fight, will sell a lot."

While neither fighter has a scheduled opponent in the near future, the idea of seeing a third bout between Rua and Machida is possible. Some fans believe Rua won the first bout decisively; however, there is justification for Machida being awarded the victory.

The UFC has already aired the inaugural season of TUF: Brazil featuring Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva as coaches, and the reality television show has become a success overseas.

Rua said he won't pick and choose his opponents, but he does have a desire to meet Machida once more and finish their trilogy.

"I fight anyone. I want that belt back, so I cannot choose opponent," he said. "But surely it would be great to face Lyoto."