Rashad Evans talks about his layoff, Tito Ortiz, and Jon Jones vs. "Rampage" Jackson

Former Light Heavyweight Champion "Suga" Rashad Evans, who will make his octagon return against Tito Ortiz this weekend, discusses his opponent, as well as the upcoming title clash between Jon Jones and "Rampage" Jackson. Evans insists that he's a completely different fighter than the one he was when he met Ortiz the first time and says he plans to let his hands to the talking on Saturday night.

Rashad Evans: I didn't forget how to fight. My timing may be off for a little bit, but once I start getting hit or the action gets going, I'm going to pick up right where I left off at. And probably better, because I've been doing a lot of training and I feel a lot more confident than I have ever been in my life. So, I'm ready to go... It's night and day. I'm a complete different fighter all together. Back then (in the first fight with Tito) I wasn't strong enough, I was waiting around, I didn't really - I really couldn't see the fight two or three steps ahead because I was so new in the sport... I just want to go out there and put my hands all over Tito. Just let my hands and fighting do the talking... Only time will tell who is going to win (between Jon Jones and 'Rampage' Jackson).  Part of me is pulling for Rampage, but I think that Jones is going to win. One thing about it is, I think if Rampage got into that old Rampage and really got into shape and really worked on the things that he needs to work on, I think he could do his thing. But, I think he does just barely enough.

Further Reading: Rashad Evans says he's happy with the "fresh start" at Imperial Athletics