As the date fast approaches for former UFC light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans (17-1-1) to enter the octagon against a man whom he once referred to as “brother” now turned enemy in the current champion, Jon Jones (15-1). “Suga” is doing all he can in training to walk out ofAtlantawith his championship around his waist again. Most recently, he traveled to Puerto Rico and trained his boxing with former WBA, WBC and IBF champion, Felix “Tito”Trinidad (42-3).
“The visit to Puerto Ricowas one of the craziest things I’ve done in my UFC career, and I’ve been here since 2005. The fans went crazy; it was so cool to be part of that. I couldn’t believe the response,” said Evans.
Through his career he has been on the receiving end of disdain from fans who have called him “cocky” and a “show boat.” Entering into the Philips Arena in a few weeks however, the momentum has shifted and many are cheering for the Ultimate Fighter (season two) winner to derail and defeat Jones for the first time, ending his title reign.
Boxing and MMA have been at odds over the years as the UFC has risen to a behemoth in the sports world, where the time tested pugilistic art has dimmed in its appeal. Not all have been supportive of MMA and other shave tried their hand and were submitted in the first round. Trinidad is not against the sport and had this to say when asked his stance on the sport, “The truth is MMA and UFC is something that’s taking over the world and we love it inPuerto Rico. We are what they call ‘hot blooded’ – we love fighting and love watching UFC events.”
Regardless on what you feel or think about boxing vs. MMA as the ideal combat sport, one thing is certain. Cross training by both their brands and former champions speaks the compliments these world class athletes have for each other’s knowledge and style that they feel can improve their game.
“I have a lot of regard for Tito as a fighter. He’s one of those fighters that I watched growing up and in many ways would try to emulate his style. He was very fast, had great power, but was so mart too. He brought a lot of pressure forward, always moving, always bouncing, always putting the heat on, and that’s a style I’ve tried to emulate… It’s exciting and kind of surreal to meet Tito. I remember watching him on TV when he was going through his thing and the spotlight was on him and all the behind the scenes coverage on him and now I get to meet him as it’s my turn.” – Rashad Evans
UFC 145: Jones vs. Evans is live Saturday, April 21 from Phillips Arena in Atlanta, GA on Pay Per View. Check local listings and service providers for viewing information.
