The Jiu-Jitsu black belt Thiago Tavares fight for the second time at UFC Rio , this time against Sam Stout, and seeks another victory in Rio de Janeiro soil, like in August of 2011 when hit Spencer Fisher and after a flurry of punches was declared the winner by TKO. In an interview to Portal do Vale Tudo, Thiago Tavares was very objective, and when asked about which strategy to use, was straightforward.

"I'll kick his ass!" said, not specifying the form, but saying the goal of the strategy. Thiago Tavares also told that the trainings were the best possible, and that is 100% physically, so he can make a flawless fight against the opponent, who comes from two consecutive victories. "He is a tough fighter, despite his striking skills, he is complete. I believe he is the biggest challenge of my life."

Having the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as his base, Thiago Tavares says he is prepared to fight both standing and on the ground, and if all goes as planned, will not have to use his expertise in submission. "I'm a MMA fighter, I'm ready to fight in all areas and especially in the stand-up. But I've been training a lot of wrestling with my teacher Marcos Bicudo," said the Brazilian, who promised to surprise the Canadian Sam Stout. "I'll impress him!"

Thiago Tavares had suffered a knockout to Shane Roller before the fight in Rio de Janeiro in August 2011, but recovered and knocked Spencer Fisher, who was also coming from an unfavorable outcome. In his view, the lightning victory over Fisher will not influence the battle at UFC 142. "Nothing. You'll see the same Thiago as always. Seeking the victory at any cost."

Still commenting on the victory over Spencer Fisher at UFC 142, Thiago Tavares said not to worry, because what happened on that occasion didn't change his mind. "It is not a simple victory that will give me more or less confidence. I know what I can, I know what I do and I can perform. So I'll go there and do what I've been training with my friends and teachers", said the athlete.

The Brazilian's opponent, Sam Stout, known as "Stone hands" because of his punching power comes from two wins in the UFC, the last over Yves Edwards in November 2011, when he won the ninth knockout in career, which has a total of 17 victories in 24 fights. But to Thiago Tavares the fame of the Canadian don't intimidate. "I do not know how (I'll win) yet, but I know I'll finish the fight. Submtting or knocking out."