The UFC heavyweight champion talks about his rematch with Cain Velasquez at UFC 196.
Fabricio Werdum shocked the world when he dominated Cain Velasquez to seize the heavyweight title at UFC 188 last year. The Brazilian used Velasquez’ aggression against him and countered Cain’s bull rushing attacks with crisp shots from distance and devastating knees in the clinch. Werdum eventually submitted an exhausted Velasquez in the third round with a guillotine choke.
An immediate rematch was announced soon after the bout after suspicions grew over Velasquez’ conditioning. The 33-year-old is known for his tireless work rate and endless cardio but was notably fatigued in the high-altitude Mexican capital of Mexico City.
The rematch will be contested in Las Vegas and Werdum says he has new tricks up his sleeve to counter Cain’s offense.
“Yes, I’ve changed a little bit,” Werdum said with a laugh to MMA Junkie at a recent Q&A session. “But it’s a secret.”
Werdum, who had prepared in Mexico City to adjust to the high elevation, doesn’t understand why fans insist on excusing Velasquez’ performance.
“Why are the guys asking about the high altitude for him? Why just for him? The altitude was for me too.”
The submission wizard believes his opponent will approach the rematch with a similar strategy to the one used against Junior dos Santos at UFC 155.
“Remember when he fought versus (Junior) Dos Santos?” Werdum said. “He faked takedown and punched to the head. I think he changed a little bit like that. But I’ve been waiting. I’ve been waiting for that. I’m not scared of if he takes me down. If he takes me down? Good. The fight just starts for me on the ground.”
Fabricio Werdum vs. Cain Velasquez II will headline the UFC 196 PPV on February 6th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.