Ageless Couture Banking on Experience
In a matter of weeks, UFC heavyweight champion Randy Couture will come face to face with arguably the most imposing physical specimen to ever compete in mixed martial arts.
The 45-year-old legend -- his well-publicized legal battle with the UFC fading in the rearview mirror -- will meet former World Wrestling Entertainment superstar Brock Lesnar in the main event at UFC 91 “Couture vs. Lesnar” on Nov. 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The champion likes how his preparation has gone.
“Camp’s been going very, very well,” Couture told Sherdog.com in an exclusive video interview conducted after UFC 90. “Seven weeks in and right on track, feeling very comfortable with my conditioning and technically feeling very good, as well. I’m excited.”
Couture has not competed since he dismantled rising Brazilian contender Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 74 in August 2007. In Lesnar, he confronts a mountain of a man who will likely outweigh him by more than 50 pounds when the two step into the cage. Couture plans to test Lesnar’s fortitude.
“I’ve been working on some things I think will show in the fight,” he said. “It will be interesting to see how he deals with some of that.”
A four-time collegiate All-American wrestler, Lesnar posted a remarkable 106-5 record at the University of Minnesota. He trains out of the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy -- home to both former UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk and one-time Bodog Fight welterweight titleholder Nick Thompson.
The 31-year-old Lesnar (2-1) rebounded from a submission loss to Frank Mir in February and defeated Heath Herring by unanimous decision at UFC 87 six months later. Many have pointed to Lesnar’s lack of professional MMA experience in questioning his credentials as a worthy title contender.
“It’s a big fight, and that’s what it’s about,” Couture said. “It’s business. Is he the number one contender? I don’t think the UFC or anyone else is pretending that he is.”
