Mauricio “Shogun” Rua considers reuniting with former mentor, comments on upcoming rematch with Griffin

Former UFC light heavyweight champion, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua has been giving his thoughts on today’s news he’ll be taking on Forrest Griffin in a rematch on the UFC in Rio card, as well as revealing he’s considering reuniting with his former mentor from the Chute Boxe days, Rafael Cordeiro.
Speaking via Shedog.com, Rua said:

“It’s an open possibility, a possibility I’m considering. I’m always looking to develop my game, and I have a great affection for Rafael, who was my coach in the past. We’ve been talking about that for a while. We’ll do it again, and I’ll decide what’s best for me. Choosing the people I work with is a very private decision, and I’m the only one who will make it.”

On his upcoming fight with “The Ultimate Fighter” original, Rua said:

“[Griffin] is a very tough and talented guy. He’s also a former division champion. His striking is good, his takedowns, too. And his ground game is dangerous, so he’s a complete fighter. I’ll have to practice everything to beat him.”

Rua lost to Griffin back at UFC 76 in September 2007, tapping out in the third and final round due to a rear-naked choke. The fighter entered the octagon that night with a huge amount of hype behind him only to fall at the first hurdle, something many put down to a string of knee injuries.