Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida was on top of the mixed martial arts world when he defeated "Suga" Rashad Evans for the UFC light heavyweight title in May 2009 at UFC 98. The second round knockout victory left UFC commentator Joe Rogan exclaiming, "Welcome to the Machida era!"
Since that time, Machida has won one fight, a controversial unanimous decision over Mauricio "Shogun" Rua at UFC 104, and lost his next two.
The victory over Rua was questioned after the fight by UFC president Dana White who said, "I thought Shogun won the fight." A rematch was booked for UFC 113, which Rua won by first round knockout, taking the UFC light heavyweight title from Machida.
Machida's next loss was at the hands of Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, a unanimous decision defeat on November 20th of last year.
Machida is now on dangerous ground. As of late the UFC has been releasing many fighters who lose three consecutive fights. That knowledge is not lost on Machida.
When Machida faces UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture on April 30th at UFC 129, he knows his job may very well be on the line, "The UFC considers the incomes a lot, the profits, and if I’m not pleasing the fans anymore, they won’t feel sorry for me," Machida told Tatame.
Machida knows Couture will be a tough test, "We know Randy Couture is a great champion, a guy who helped to build the sport as it is, and it’s a great pleasure to have this fight on my résumé, because I’ll be part of Randy Couture’s history on the sport," Machida commented. "He added much to MMA. I believe we can win, we have many weapons. Despite he’s on a certain age, he’s tough and experienced, and he’s been fighting guys like Minotauro, and he did tough fights and he’s tough for anyone."
Machida is known for his defensive fighting style. With his job on the line and the pressure on he may bring a new look to the Octagon when he faces Couture. This bout will be one to watch.
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