‘Minotauro’: I’m Fighting at UFC 134

Antonio Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira (left) says he will fight at UFC 134. | Photo: D. Herbertson/Sherdog.com

Nogueira was discussing the surgeries he underwent last year -- including one on his hip and a reconstructive procedure on his knee -- when he declared that he will compete on the card, which takes place at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.

“The biggest MMA promotion in the world will be back in Brazil after 14 years and I’ll be there, steady and strong.”

Nogueira did not disclose his opponent, but made clear his desire to co-headline the event, which is currently a slot expected to be filled by Mauricio “Shogun” Rua vs. Forrest Griffin.

“Anderson Silva will fight in the main event [against Yushin Okami] and I'm looking forward to fighting in the co-main event.”

The 34-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt last saw action in a February 2010 knockout loss to now-UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez.

Colin Foster contributed to this report.