Machida: I’m the best I’ve ever been
Lyoto Machida: “I’m confident that if I do what I’ve trained to do, I can win this title. My age isn’t a factor at all, in my opinion.”
At this weekend’s UFC 175, Lyoto Machida could become a two division champion, a rarity in our sport. But at thirty six years old, Machida feels as though he’s the best he’s ever been and will become the UFC middleweight champion:
“I feel the difference at this weight, and it’s all to my benefit,” Machida said. “I’m much stronger but at the same time, I’m much faster. I felt I was a fast fighter at 205 pounds, but I’ve gotten even faster and quicker. And now when I’m fighting guys who aren’t as big, my strength will be even more of an advantage.
“So I’m not feeling pressure or any sense of urgency. I’m the best I’ve ever been, in terms of my skills, my understanding of what is going on in the Octagon and my conditioning. I’m confident that if I do what I’ve trained to do, I can win this title. My age isn’t a factor at all, in my opinion.”
