Lyoto Machida Thinks Jacare Souza Will Be Champion When He Returns

Lyoto Machida spoke with MMAjunkie about his return in October of next year from his USADA suspension. Some highlights are below:

On his prediction for when he gets back: “I think when I come back, ‘Jacare’ will be the champ. ‘Jacare’ has a lot of potential. He deserves the chance. I don’t know why he didn’t have a chance already. But soon he will be the champion. Romero as well. Romero is a very strong guy. He’s a very explosive fighter, and I think he has a chance too.”

On a potential opponet for his return: “It’s very hard to say because of 11 months, but I want to fight against anyone.

On his eventual retirement: “I cannot foresee (retirement), but what I can say is I feel very healthy and very good. I train every day. I train at Kings (MMA). I train at Black House. I train at my academy, so I can train with all those fighters that are there. I feel very good. I feel fast. I feel strong. It’s hard to say (how long I have) until I can do it. I still have something to show, something to give to my fans. I took the blame of course, but I think we could have more education; USADA could instruct us much more than they did. … I just have to wait for my punishment and wait for my time.”