Blackout Media Corp (BKMP)

[RULiquid]

ROYCE GRACIE GETS READY FOR HUGHES


With his fight against Matt Hughes only a couple of weeks away, Royce Gracie was gracious enough to allow the media an intimate look into his training this weekend. Rodrigo Gracie was in attendance for this particular session as was his brother Royler, whom he brought out from Brazil to help him with preparation for this fight. After a bit of stretching and a short warm up of jump rope, he ran through some pummeling and sprawl drills as well as working his hands a bit on focus mitts. He appeared to be in great condition and only about 4 pounds over the agreed fight weight of 175 lbs. for the May 27th bout. "179 to 180 pounds is what I walk around at," commented Royce, "this is the first time I have ever had to cut weight." Not only did Gracie appear to look ready physically but mentally as well. Confident in his family's jiu-jitsu and his ability to win this fight he described his opponent as "a strong athlete" and "the number one fighter in the weight class". He made sure to express that he does not feel like his fight with Hughes is a match of styles rather it's a test of who will be better prepared, "Everyone cross trains now. You must be prepared in all aspects of fighting." When asked if he would make a prediction for this fight he simply chuckled and said, "I will give you my prediction after the fight."

POSTED -- 05/13/06