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Stevie Ray Hoping to Headline UFC’s Scotland Show
Image Credit: UFC
Stevie Ray spoke with MMAjunkie after his win over Joe Lauzon at UFC Fight Night 108. Some highlights are below:
On losing the first round: “I remember that he won the first round, and I had to come out in the second and pucker up a bit. And then the third round, the same again, I just put it all on the line. That was my job in there, just put it all on the line, and then it’s obviously down to the judges.”
On if he was surprised by anything in the fight: “I felt that maybe he wouldn’t tire as quickly, and I’d still be taking some shots in the second and the third. Maybe he gassed himself out in the first trying to finish me. But if he’d done his studying, he should know that I’m a warrior, as well. I’ve been in some tough fights, and there’s not anything that’s going to put me out of there.”
On going all-out: “I need to go back and watch it, but I was maybe just throwing everything with too much power. Maybe I should have picked my shots more, a little bit more tactical. Especially the first, I was just … I had a thought in my head – let’s just put it all on the line here, throw leather and see who’s still standing at the end of it. The game plan was to try and box, let my hands go and not kick so much. I feel like defensive striking is his weakness. He just kind of brings his hands up, leaves his body open. I didn’t really target his body as much as I’d like to. But, again, it’s a learning experience. Win or lose, I’m going to learn from this.”
On his next fight: “I think I’m a little under the radar at the moment. I’m 5-1 in the UFC, and I’ve already co-main-evented a UFC (Fight Night 99). I took it on short notice, against Ross Pearson in Belfast. So if I can co-main a fight in Belfast, then why not main event in Scotland? I’m the most popular fighter in Scotland. Even before the UFC, I’m quite a popular guy. I used to sell out all the local shows, as well, and I know that as soon as I’m on that card, and tickets are on sale, it’s going to sell out straight away.”
