Lyoto Machida has expressed interest in facing Luke Rockhold under Karate Combat rules, but emphasizes the importance of fair compensation.
Following Rockhold’s knockout victory over Joe Schilling at Karate Combat 45 in Dubai, he called out Machida for a rematch. Machida, the former UFC light heavyweight champion, responded on Instagram. Stating that he’s eager for the challenge and is already fired up about it.
However, Machida also made it clear that the financial aspect needs to be addressed properly before moving forward. He emphasized the need for the right compensation and setting a suitable date for the potential matchup.
Rockhold previously defeated Machida in a UFC bout in 2015, earning himself a title shot in the middleweight division. Since then, both fighters have had varied career paths, with Machida’s last bout being a loss to Fabian Edwards in 2022, while Rockhold last competed in the UFC in 2022 before transitioning to bare-knuckle boxing.
Rockhold’s victory over Schilling marked his return to winning ways, and he wasted no time in targeting Machida for his next challenge. He emphasized the absence of elbows in Karate Combat. Referencing past nightmares about them. And urged Machida to bring his best while also hinting at the financial incentive of the bout.
As negotiations potentially unfold, fans await confirmation of whether Machida and Rockhold will indeed face off in a Karate Combat rematch, with both fighters eager to prove themselves in the unique martial arts setting.
Leave a Reply