Two world titles staked in UFC

MANILA, Philippines - Two world titles will be on the line for the first time this year as four of the biggest stars in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) clash Saturday (Sunday in Manila) at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Canadian mixed martial artist George “Rush” St. Pierre faces Britain’s Dan “The Outlaw” Hardy for the UFC welterweight title while Frank Mir battles Shane Carwin for the interim heavyweight title.

In a recent exclusive teleconference for UFC 111: St-Pierre vs Hardy, St. Pierre, defending UFC welterweight champion, said he is not pressured to do well but he is up to the challenge. “I believe I have a lot more pressure than Dan Hardy and that’s a good thing because I had a lot of pressure in all of my big fights. When I’m under pressure I’m more nervous which makes me more awake and my reaction time is better, so that’s a good thing for me.”

When asked about his opponent, St. Pierre described Hardy as a dangerous guy.

“A lot of people underestimate Dan Hardy and it’s a big mistake. Hardy is the most dangerous guy that I’ve fought so far. He’s a thinking fighter surrounded by a great team.”

But despite his praises, GSP was certain to he will keep his title. “Nobody’s invincible, but right now I’m the best Georges St. Pierre I ever been for this fight and I train myself to fight an army of men, so one guy will not be able to break me.”

Fresh from his wins over Marcus Davis and Mike Swick, Hardy, on the other hand, was vocal about eyeing to snatch off the title and saw the bout as a great situation for him. “The only reason I’m in the UFC is because Georges has got something I want and that’s what I’m here to do. I’m going to do my best to take the title off him and that’s what I’m here for. It’s a great opportunity and I’ve got nothing to lose. I’m in a situation where I can go and just have a good time and be myself and you know make a fight out of it.”