"This is a really important fight, but I try not to think of it like that. I just go out and do my best each time. I train hard for all of my fights, but it does give me more incentive with an opponent like Dan. I think it'll be an exciting fight...Hendo has more power. I have stronger Jiu Jitsu. I'm working on ways to neutralize his advantages and to maximize mine," stated Strikeforce Middleweight Champion Jake Shields as he talked about his upcoming title defense against Dan Henderson. Check it out!
JL: So the bout with Dan Henderson has been signed and fans are extremely excited. Is this your most important fight to date?
DH: This is a really important fight, but I try not to think of it like that. I just go out and do my best each time. I train hard for all of my fights, but it does give me more incentive with an opponent like Dan. I think it'll be an exciting fight.
JL: When you fight Hendo, how does your striking compare with his? Are you at all concerned about not getting the fight to the ground?
JS: Hendo has more power. I have stronger Jiu Jitsu. I'm working on ways to neutralize his advantages and to maximize mine.
JL: Apparently your contract has 1 more fight on it, which is expected to go on in April. However, many are wondering if you are positioning yourself for a move to the UFC with your participation in TUF 11 and recent statements toward GSP. Do you plan on sticking with the ever-growing Strikeforce or moving to the UFC?
JS: I always take it one fight at a time.
JL: Has anything changed with your move to Middleweight? Are you comfortable with the extra weight? Do you plan on returning to Welterweight occasionally?
JS: I'm feeling pretty comfortable at this weight, but I think Welterweight is my best weight so I'll probably fight there again at some point.
JL: Strikeforce has signed a lot of talent recently. Tell us about the fighters who potentially are a threat to you.
JS: They're signing some good talent at all of their weights. Jacare [Ronaldo de Souza] comes to mind. A lot of people in America don't really know who he is, but he's a tough guy. Robbie Lawler, of course, would probably want another shot right now. Obviously Hendo.
JL: Some West Coast fans said that at the end of the CBS broadcast of your fight with Mayhem, they edited out the portion where you were shaking hands. Was there trash talk going on? Did the fight jeopardized your relationship with Mayhem, and was the internet drama on Twitter all just in fun?
JS: There was no trash talk in the ring or right after the fight. Mayhem started some on Twitter, but no hard feelings on my end.
JL: With the Strikeforce/DREAM alliance, fighters have been transported one place or the other. Would you like a fight in Japan, and what potential competition do you see there?
JS: I don't see any big fights for me in Japan right now, but if someone comes along, I'd be happy to fight there again.
JL: Tell us about your relationship with Scott Coker. Do you like the direction the organization is heading?
JS: I have good relations with Scott. He's a good guy. I think Strikeforce is moving in the right direction. They're signing good fighters in every weight class. They're putting together great fight cards no matter what; injuires, whatever, they get it together. And having Showtime on prime cable is a great market and CBS is big, so it really puts MMA out to a whole new fan base.
JL: Thanks for your time, Jake.
JS: Thank you and thanks to all the fans. Come check out my new updated website at www.jakeshields.com