• UFC 152

Stann: Bisping fight might not last long

ESPN staff
September 1, 2012
Brian Stann has heavy hands © Getty Images
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Brian Stann has predicted his clash with Michael Bisping is unlikely to last long at UFC 152, although he rates the Brit as "one of the biggest stars in the UFC".

There is a very real possibility that the winner of Stann v Bisping, which takes place on September 22, could book a middleweight title shot against reigning champion Anderson Silva. With Silva uninterested in a clash with Chris Weidman and unlikely to fight before the end of the year, Stann and Bisping know a big statement victory could turn Dana White's head.

The mutual respect between Stann and Bisping is tangible heading into the 185lb contest, with no trash talk hyping what is an outstanding fight on paper. However, if Stann carries one significant advantage into the bout it is his punching power, and he points to past wins as an example of what Bisping can expect.

"I absolutely want to test his chin," Stann said. "Anybody who stood with me knows the fight doesn't last long. I'm in this to be a champion and I need to beat Michael Bisping to make a statement."

Expressing his admiration for the Brit, Stann added: "This guy's one of the biggest stars of the UFC. He's on the cusp of a title shot. That's the situation I'm always looking for. I want to fight the best guys.

"I don't think there's an opponent out there that would have gotten me more excited. He's a guy that settles into the fight quickly, executes his game plan very well and mixes it up.

"He has a good feel when he needs a takedown or a couple of shots to secure the round. I think he's the very best guy at scrambling back to his feet when he's taken down."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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