“In my mind, when I’m at my best I can beat anyone in the world at 170 and I have to prove that. It’s not a matter of who, it’s a matter of when and where for me. Nate Marquardt is a very well-rounded fighter. I couldn’t tell you somewhere he stands out where he’s weak. He’s a veteran who’s been fighting for a long time. I’ve got to beat him to prove that I’m a contender for this title. Emotions are not going to win fights, action is.

For me, I know I’ve got to be offensive regardless of who I fight. I’ve got to go in there and I’ve got to win. I don’t know if I’m the best welterweight in the world right now but I know I can beat anyone in the world and that’s all I need to know. I know I can beat Nate Marquardt.”