With the official announcement that UFC lightweights Spencer “The King” Fisher (24-7) and Brazilian Thiago Tavares (15-4-1) would meet at the upcoming UFC 134 event in Rio, Tavares has been free to comment on the fight.
Tavares feels that most American fighters have no idea what it’s like to fight in hostile territory, almost always fighting on their native soil, therefore Fisher has no idea “what he’s getting into” fighting him in Brazil.
UFC 134/UFC Rio is expected to take place on August 27 at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the UFC’s first visit to that country since 1998 with UFC: Ultimate Brazil.
Tavares, who enters the bout on a loss and is 1-1-1 in his last three, spoke to Tatame.com about fighting in front of his fellow Brazilians, as well as the type of reception Fisher can expect to receive from fans.
How did it feel to know you’ll fight in UFC Rio?
It’s another dream coming true… Fighting in UFC in Brazil, in front of all my family and friends… That’s a reward for a good work, I always bring my A game and I’m putting on good shows. That’s the reward for my dedication.Americans are used to fight at home against Brazilians, having the support of the fans. Fighting in Brazil will be a new thing for him, so do you believe it’ll help you?
Fisher doesn’t know where he’s getting into… Everybody from Florianopolis will be there besides me, Brazil will support me. When the octagon’s door is shut, there’re only two men in there, but the pressure is on me, the good vibes too. Fisher doesn’t realize what he’s getting into when he fights me in Rio de Janeiro. Each time I punch him I’ll represent 100 people who are there and cheer for me, each time I take him down there’ll be 100 people cheering for me (laughs).