Former UFC middleweight champion, Luke Rockhold is set to finally return to the UFC Octagon later this year as he fights rising contender of the 185 lbs division Sean Strickland at UFC 268. The AKA trainee has lost his last 2 fights in the UFC against the likes of Jan Blachowicz and Yoel Romero, both by knockout.
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Once considered as one of the best fighters in the UFC, Rockhold hasn’t been the same since losing his title to Michael Bisping at UFC 199. But he is back and is looking to make a point. Rockhold believes he didn’t fight to his full potential in his last 2 fights and is determined to show his true ability.
“I think, a lot of reasons. You know, ending it on my own terms. I think it was a big deal for me. I think like I haven’t done myself justice last couple of fights, I don’t think I fought to my potential. I think I fought with a lot of weight on my shoulders and didn’t really perform to my liking,” said Rockhold.
“Getting older and if there’s ever a time, it’s gonna be now. And I still feel like I’m the best in the game that I’m on. And I just kind of put the work in, get healthy, and get right,” he added.
“Obviously, there was shoulder injury, there were a few different things I had to work through too in the process,” the former champion said further.
Can Luke Rockhold get back at the top?
Rockhold is one of the most skillful fighters in the UFC. He has a very good striking game and his grappling is something fans and experts hold in high regard. However, his chin and the ability to absorb shots have betrayed him in recent times.
He will have his hands full against a rising contender like himself who will be determined to make a name for himself at the expense of the former champion. But, if Rockhold stays true to his game plan and fights by his skills, he is still a tough outing for anybody in the 185 lbs roster.
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