UFC 129: Randy Couture Thinks Lyoto Machida Is "Worried" Ahead of Their Bout

Lyoto Machida is always prepared and concentrated inside of the cage, as he outside of it, but his opponent thinks otherwise.

Randy Couture, who will challenge Machida at UFC 129, says he believes Machida is doing a lot more talking than he usually does and it leads him to believe that the Brazilian is worried prior to next Saturday night. 

"I've seen Lyoto's comments, 'Oh, now I'm going to have to beat the judges, too'. That tells me he's concerned about the fight a little bit," the 47-year-old told Sports Illustrated. 

Whether Couture is only adding fuel to the fire is anyone's guess, but the fact is that Machida is on a two-fight losing streak and he could risk the possibility of losing a third to Couture. Not only do oddsmakers favour the Brazilian to defeat Couture, but it is expected by most fans, too. If not, Machida's losing streak might not be the only thing he has to worry about.

Ever since losing the UFC light heavyweight title a year ago to Mauricio "Shogun" Rua at UFC 113, Machida followed that up with a split decision loss to Quinton "Rampage" Jackson at UFC 123.

Something was visibly wrong with the once-invinceable fighter. And Couture sees that too.

"I think it's in his head. He's worried about the fight and how it's going to be for him. Obviously, coming off two losses, his confidence isn't as high as it probably was a year ago," Couture said.

With that being said, Couture has a good idea on what to expect from his opponent. 

"He's going to run away and try to draw me into that range where he likes to be, and I'm going to try to pressure him, and cut him off and get my hands on him."

UFC 129 will be a historical night for many reasons, one reason being that this will be Couture's final bout in the octagon. Whether he wins or loses, Couture vows to hang up his gloves for good. 

As for Machida, anything but a win will prevent him from re-entering the title picture. 

And while UFC 129 is guaranteed to be Couture's last stand, it might also be the final chance for Machida to reestablish himself as a top contender.