UFC 134 Preview: Forrest Griffin Expects a Tough Weight Cut Prior to UFC 134

Since his win over Rich Franklin at UFC 126, Forrest Griffin has taken a considerable amount of time off. The former UFC light heavyweight champion has gained some extra weight leading up to his rematch with Mauricio "Shogun" Rua at UFC 134, which he admits he doesn't enjoy too well.

In an interview with Sherdog.com, Griffin spoke about his recent weight gain but he said he expects to be in shape prior to his upcoming bout in Brazil.

“I definitely put on more weight than I would like,” Griffin told Sherdog.com. 

“I need to cut weight and it won’t be easy. I’ll have a lot of problems until the fight in Brazil, but I’ve gotta do it."

Griffin explained his worrying for his weight issues, mentioning that he needs to be in shape in order to compete for the duration of the bout. Rua and Griffin met at UFC 76 in 2007, where Griffin upset the Brazilian via rear naked choke.

Rua was acquired from Pride FC, making his debut for the UFC at the time. Most fans predicted he would dispose of Griffin and make short work of him en route to a potential title bout with then UFC light heavyweight champion, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson.

Griffin said entering the Octagon in proper shape is part of his strategy.

"He’s one of the best fighters ever,” Griffin said of Rua.

“He has a blitz style. He goes forward. He’s dangerous. I gotta make him move backward and let’s see what happens. I want to go hard for all 15 minutes of the fight.”