Werdum: I have 'evolved'

Fabricio Werdum believes he is a completely different fighter from when he first fought "Minotauro" Nogueria seven years ago.

Werdum 'more complete' ahead of Nogueira rematch

Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira defeated new kid on the block Fabricio Werdum when they first fought seven years ago but as they prepare for a second fight at this weekend's UFC on Fuel 10, both men are almost unrecognisable from that day. Nogueira was one of the best heavweights on the planet when he was victorious in Japanese organisation PRIDE in 2006 over Brazilian compatriot Werdum - but things have come full circle as they now meet in Fortaleza in their home country to headline the Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 2. It is now Werdum who is favourite to go from student to master. A jiu-jitsu world champion, he was only comfortable in 2006 if the fight went to the ground, but now has evolved into an all-round competitor who might be one win away from a championship opportunity. "I was a newcomer but Minotauro was already a champion," Werdum told UFC.com. "He used his experience against me as a young new fighter. "The main difference for me in this fight is that I've specialised and evolved. Today I'm more complete. I know how to throw punches and kicks at the right moment." Nogueira, at 37-years-old, has defied his creaking and battle-worn body to persevere with showcase fights - only 18 months ago his arm was brutally broken by Frank Mir but he still refused to relinquish his legendary career. "I have 14 years of experience and I still feel I can fight for a few more years," he predicted. He is only two years older than Werdum but has fought almost twice as much meaning that his athletic disadvantage is offset by his unparalleled experience. To overlook Nogueira is to foolishly ignore a staggering 22 career submissions. When two submission specialists meet they often nullify each other and Nogueira is comfortable to stand with Werdum instead, claiming: "I believe my hands are still faster and heavier." Both men's last fight took place in Brazil but the home crowd are expected to favour Nogueira out of respect for his superior legacy in the sport. It remains to be seen whether that will be enough to stop him being humbled by Werdum who is finally finding his feet as a legitimate heavyweight. "We are two great representatives for Brazil and this will be a great fight for the people of Fortaleza," Nogueira stated. "It'll be emotional fighting in Brazil again," Werdum agreed. "I want to show everyone that I'm ready to be world champion. I know I have a big obstacle in my way with Minotauro."
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