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UFC Fight Night 144 is almost here. Headlining the show is one of the top Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the world. Raphael Assuncao will be taking on Marlon Moraes in a rematch.
Last time around, Assuncao was able to put away his opponent, and he will be looking for a similar result at the event in UFC tonight
Ahead of his fight, I was able to catch up with him and pose a few questions before him.
Tune in to Sony ESPN and ESPN HD to catch all the action from UFC Fight Night 144.
Q. The last time you faced Marlon Moraes you defeated him via Split Decision. Have you prepared differently this time ahead of your fight with him?
RA: I always prepare differently and I am always looking to improve and to see what I can do differently and always put on a better show, a better performance. I am sure he has improved, as he has already shown, he’s got some good knockouts, but I am a different athlete, I am just a different guy, I am not going to change who I am.
Q. You've talked about being frustrated about not getting a title shot due to not having enough followers. Do you think that winning this fight will help you finally get the title shot you deserve?
RA: Yes, I think so. The frustration is over. It’s a lack of luck. I had a chance before and it didn’t happen but I think it will happen now. This is a great fight to happen in this weight class and it’ll get me to that title shot where I should be.
Q. Of all the newcomers to the UFC, is there any youngster you feel has a lot of promise?
RA: Yes, I watch a few of the up and comers, the UFC is really growing, even though I am a veteran I feel like I am still improving.
