UFC 119 – Despite lack of preparation, Mirko Cro Cop says he can still “lay out Frank Mir in the first round”
UFC heavyweight knockout artist, Mirko Cro Cop has been giving further thought on stepping in as a late replacement for the injured Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira against Frank Mir at UFC 119, explaining despite the lack of time to prepare he’s still going to be capable of turning out the American’s lights in the first round.
Speaking via Index.hr, Cro Cop said:
“It is certain that I will not be able to go full force. I was left with only five weeks to prepare. I would not agree to the madness of this fight if Lorenzo Fertitta didn’t beg me to step in. They were in a difficult situation because Minotauro could not fight, and this is my way to repay [the UFC].”
“This is for the whole UFC and the fans who appreciate me. Regardless of the situation and the short-term preparation, some things in life must be separated. They enabled me to have a fruitful life and I will be eternally grateful.”
“Just this morning I had a good workout. Perhaps the worst thing is the immediacy of the training and getting tired out there. This all, of course, does not mean that I am looking for an excuse, but I certainly will not be ready. However, it still means I can lay out Frank Mir in the first round.”
Cro Cop has only lost once in his last seven fights, defeating the likes of Mustapha Al-Turk, Anthony Perosh and Pat Barry during his time in the octagon. Can he now take his biggest scalp to date since joining the ranks of the UFC and defeat a former heavyweight champion?
By Michael Pepper. (Follow me on Twitter)
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