1. Injuries
Obviously at the forefront of Rua’s decline are his many injuries. Shogun has been forced to undergo repeated reconstructive surgeries on his knees, which have in turn sapped much of the power and explosiveness from his aggressive Muay Thai style that relies heavily upon his vaunted leg kicks.
He also broke his nose in his most recent loss to Dan Henderson in the main event of March’s UFC Fight Night 38, forcing him into another surgery and prompting his family to ask him to retire.
But Rua is a true warrior, a competitor whose toughness may outweigh his desire for personal safety. He’s going to put himself harm’s way over and over again because that’s who he is.
This Saturday, he’ll be faced with a tough and much bigger challenge in the form of St. Preux, a fighter who just recently saw an impressive five-fight win streak disappear against Ryan Bader at August’s UFC Fight Night 47.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Shogun emerge with a new ailment whether he wins or loses, and with injuries mounting up for the rapidly aging fighter, it’s hard not to wonder how much more punishment his body can take.
