Forrest Griffin out to Prove That Victory over Mauricio Rua Wasn't a Fluke

Former UFC light heavyweight champion and season one winner of The Ultimate Fighter, Forrest Griffin, is currently training in Rio de Janeiro for his upcoming bout with Mauricio "Shogun" Rua at UFC 134.

Competing in the UFC since 2005, Griffin has compiled a very respectable 9-4 record inside the famed Octagon with notable victories over the aforementioned Rua, as well as Rich Franklin and Quinton Jackson.

Known for his work ethic and dedication to his training, Griffin has proven that diligence and time training in the gym equates to victories inside the cage.

Preparing for potentially his most critical fight with respect to championship title implications, Griffin sat down and spoke with Tatame TV after the UFC Rio press conference regarding his rematch with Rua.

In preparation for "Shogun" in this re-match, Griffin told Tatame, "I need to be in great shape. Be a little lighter. Be a little quicker."

Asked about whether or not Griffin feels a victory over Rua will put him in title contention once again, in classic Griffin style, he deferred comment in a philosophical manner.

"It's like climbing a mountain. You look up at the mountain and it's high. You look down and it's going to be a big fall. Just concentrate on what you're doing and put one foot forward at a time."

Motivated to defeat Rua once again, Griffin stated, "I need to prove that the first time wasn't a fluke and I need to prove that I am still relevant."

Focused and driven to defeat Mauricio "Shogun" Rua a second time, Forrest Griffin's training and preparation for this matchup will be pivotal in determining whether or not he remains within the title talk for the UFC light heavyweight championship.

You can catch the Griffin-Rua matchup at UFC 134 on August 27, 2011 live from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

I welcome your comments.

Todd Seyler

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