Rampage and Griffin chase Silva lining
by Ben Blackmore, 04 July 2008
Inspiration can come in many forms. But when it appears in the shape of Wanderlei Silva, you cannot help but expect a monumental tussle when Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Forrest Griffin contest the UFC light-heavyweight title - live on Setanta Sports.
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For Griffin, Wanderlei’s inspiration could not have been more direct. He has sparred with the Brazilian, and he admitted it is as sharp a wake-up call as you'll get.
“You very quickly get used to getting punched in the face,” quipped the challenger.
For Jackson, Wanderlei’s inspiration is more ingrained, more emotive. “The Axe Murderer” has beaten Rampage twice, and the champion revealed it has changed the way he trains.
“When I lost to Wanderlei in the past, I was sparring with Jiu-Jitsu guys. Now I’m sparring with some of the best strikers in the world,” explained Jackson.
“I’m talking people like Cheick Kongo, that guy hits hard, he’s crazy, he don’t care – he’ll kick your ass and then kiss you once the round’s over.”
It may well be that Jackson gets his chance for revenge against Wanderlei if he sees off Griffin, and he is adamant he will rule the light-heavyweight division for many years to come.
“I don’t wanna fight guys who are gonna run, I wanna fight guys who like to fight. That’s what matters to me.
“Forrest is a hard-worker, he’ll train hard, so I’ve had to work hard.
“So I want you guys to know you’re in for a battle. You better get prepared for one of the best fights you’ve seen.
“I plan to finish this fight, and I’m gonna be champion for a long time yet.”
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