Mauricio “Shogun” Rua Considering a Move to Middleweight Following UFC Fight Night 33

Mauricio “Shogun” Rua will consider a move to middleweight following his fight with James Te Huna at UFC Fight Night 33 in Brisbane, Australia, on Dec. 7 (Dec. 6 in the U.S.).

The 31-year-old Brazilian is likely to follow the lead of countryman Lyoto Machida and drop to 185 pounds after losses in four of his last six UFC fights.

“It might happen, but for now I have a fight scheduled,” Rua said at a recent fan Q&A in Brazil. “I would have to do some medical exams to check if it’s possible.”

The former light heavyweight champion normally walks around at about 228 pounds and cuts 23 pounds for his fights, but would have to lose an additional 20 pounds if he were to drop down another weight class.

“Maybe I can (drop to 185) and maintain my performance. I would need to think about it, but that’s something that can happen.”

First, he is focusing on his upcoming fight with Te Huna, who has only lost twice in the UFC, which were against Glover Teixeira and Alexander Gustafsson, who currently sit at the top of the 205-pound division. Rua doesn’t feel that he has to win the fight, as long as he gives a good account for the fans.

“He’s an aggressive fighter and I know it will be tough,” Rua continued. “I like this fight because of his style. I don’t think of this fight as definitive for my career. I have no obligation to win, only to do my best.

“This fight is going to be difficult, the guy is good in boxing, and I will have to fight my best to leave the cage as the winner. My focus only is training and evolving. As long as my body is good, I will be fighting.

“I always say my biggest motivation is the fans, we have to do what we love and I am impassioned by what I do.”