We've all been there, where it seems like all the cards are stacked against you, and you can't seem to do anything right. But you still have to say to yourself, 'You know what? That's not going to stop me. I still have to find a way.'
I've been blessed with athleticism, and don't get me wrong, I'm thankful for it. But I'm really grateful that I learned how to, without sounding arrogant, just suck it up and realize that even though I'm not at my best in a given situation, it doesn't matter. You still have to get the job done.
I've been competing my whole life. Who cares about the spotlight?
I'm done. I'm retiring. I'm getting out of the MMA world.
I've been very blessed to accomplish everything I've wanted to. Anything I've put my mind to, I've done it.
I get to fight a tough dude like Koscheck, and then a title shot if I win? It's great.
The UFC wants to put on shows that the fans want to see, and if the fans want to see you fight someone, that's what's going to happen.
Sometimes you do have to make your stand if you really want something.
I never call anyone out because I have too much respect for everyone. It's hard enough just getting in the Octagon. If you call somebody out and you end up losing, it looks worse.
Anytime you can be the face of the UFC is so huge, a great honor, and I would do everything I could to keep it that way.
Reebok has helped me tremendously with my training.
What does being an athlete mean? It means I have to be a little selfish again. I have to put my career sort of ahead of everything else - and I don't like doing that.
I'll downplay myself before I compliment myself.
Disney World was tough because you do a lot of walking, but it was worth it. To see the smiles on the faces of my kids and the memories that we made makes it all worth it.
It's great to be able to fight in Dallas, but to be the main event for a fight card in Dallas is an honor in itself.
It's been nice to spend time with the family. It's been good to spend time with the wife and kids.
That desire and drive to keep going are crucial things to have, and time off gave that to me.
All I care about is getting smarter and better.
Every fight, I have to learn something.
I'm not going to fight unless it's for a belt. Nothing else matters but the belt.
