Much like Jon Jones, Lyoto Machida was once seen as an unstoppable force in the UFC light heavyweight division.
The elusive Brazilian went on a seven-fight win streak where his karate-based style was a puzzle for nearly all of his opponents, and it eventually lead him to a title shot against then-champion Rashad Evans in May 2009.
But his title reign was short-lived and he has since looked to find his place once again in the crowded 205-pound division.
Although some fans don’t believe in the mystique Machida once had, “The Dragon” will look to retain some of his re-found aura.
After scoring a knockout victory over Randy Couture earlier this year at UFC 129, Machida instantly reentered himself into the conversation as being a title contender. He gets his opportunity to regain the UFC light heavyweight title when he challenges Jones at UFC 140 this weekend.
In an interview with Sherdog.com, Machida’s manager Ed Soares spoke about the upcoming bout and said Machida’s skills are being overlooked compared to Jones’ and he believes the former UFC light heavyweight hasn’t lost anything is still a threat to beat the 24-year-old.
“Jon Jones is an incredible athlete but I think Lyoto has the tools to beat him,” Soares said. ” Lyoto is his first southpaw, and not only is he a southpaw, but a southpaw who moves around the Octagon very well.”
It is unquestionable that Jones possesses all the skills and talent to remain UFC Champion for a while, but fans have become so mesmerized by his potential that they proclaim him unbeatable. It is the same proclamation that Machida was labeled until his fall from grace; and because of that, Soares said Jones faces a lot of challenges at 205 pounds, including Machida.
“I think Jon Jones needs to worry about Lyoto Machida,” Soares said. “When I hear things like that it makes me think that the people are counting Lyoto out.” He added, “First he’s got to get through Lyoto, and then if he gets through Lyoto, he’s got to get through Rashad, so, you know, we’ll see what happens.”
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com