Always following discipline and determination in his training sessions, “Minotauro” said he is more motivated than ever for his fight against the 20-4-0 former UFC heavyweight champion.
“I’m sure I will be able to show a great performance,” stated the Brazilian Top Team star. “Barnett is an excellent fighter, and he proved that he can be dangerous striking on is feet and even on the ground. In a high-level fight like this anything can happen, but I’m very confident that I can beat him.”
Well aware of Barnett’s strengths — due mainly to the fact that they’ve fought — Nogueira (28-4-1, 1 NC) hasn’t allowed any distraction to infect his training.
The former PRIDE heavyweight champion’s teammates, including his twin brother Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (Pictures), are the masterpieces in his intense preparation for this upcoming battle, and “Minotauro” said he intends to be in his greatest shape when he steps into the ring against the 29-year-old American on the Dec. 31.
“I feel good,” Nogueira said. “My preparation pace is very intense, and my team is helping me a lot. I’m training a lot of boxing. My BJJ is very improved. I’m ready for this event, and I will be victorious.”
Emboldened by having fought on previous New Year’s Eve PRIDE cards, “Minotauro” guarantees he will defeat Barnett and erase every bad impression about their last fight.
“I’ll give my best one more time,” he promised. “I’ll try to become victorious on this night and I’ll step into 2007 with the right foot forward. In the next year, I will be better than ever. You can bet on it.” “Minotoro” should face Gilbert Yvel (Pictures)
Though no official announcement has been made, there are rumors pointing to a bout between Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (Pictures) and Gilbert Yvel (Pictures) on “Shockwave.”
“Minotoro” would not confirm a fight against Yvel, but he did admit to knowing the Dutchman very well, and said he is ready for everything.
“Gilbert Yvel (Pictures) is a great fighter,” Rogerio said. “This would be an excellent fight. I’m ready to fight, I’m well trained and I feel very comfortable in this weight class. I’ll fight anyone, but I leave the choice in DSE’s hands.”
With 2006 coming to an end, “Minotoro” does not hide his expectations for the new year.
“I’m very focused and in 2007 I really want to face Wanderlei. I hope to be in the Middleweight GP. I will look for two title belts, and I want to keep them.”