Lyoto Machida is in the final stages of his training camp as he prepares to challenge for the UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 140.
Among the additions to his camp was boxing coach Luiz Dorea, renowned for assisting fellow Brazilian’s like Junior dos Santos and Anderson Silva.
Upon making the trip to Machida’s hometown of Belem, Para, Dorea said he has seen a progression in the Brazilian’s striking skills, comparing it to some of the best names in boxing history.
“I have great Boxing experience and it’s hard to see a heavyweight fighter who moves and does what he does,” Dorea told TATAME.com. “There are few: Anderson, Dos Santos, Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali), Roy Jones Jr.”
“The Dragon” possesses one of the most complex and diverse styles in mixed martial arts, becoming educated and disciplined in Shotokan Karate at a young age taught by his father, Yoshizo.
Since his UFC debut in 2007, Machida has practiced and implemented other disciplines and styles into his arsenal, including Muay Thai, Judo and Sumo, and has rounded out his skills to become one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
His recent training camp gives evidence that Machida continues to evolve and work hard in order to emerge as the best light heavyweight in the world. And having experienced the camp for himself, Dorea is convinced that Machida will reclaim the light heavyweight crown on December 10.
“I trust Lyoto, I believe we’ll bring the fourth title to Brazil,” he said.
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