With his title shot against light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida only weeks away at UFC 104, Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua has been talking about the unique challenge that his opponent presents.  Machida has so far remained undefeated in 15 fights, and, worryingly for his opponents appears to be improving each time he steps into the octagon.

Much of his success has been attributed to his background in Karate, which he has cleverly integrated into the more widely used MMA techniques.  Rua is well aware of the threat Machida poses and has studied his style carefully to comes up with a game-plan for the fight. 

“I think you have to be patient enough to find the right moment to attack, and know when to engage and when to connect with your strikes, and when to pursue him so you don’t get exposed to his style and his counter-striking ability.”

Watch the interview with Rua, which includes footage from both fighters recent wins, below:

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