• UFC 154

Kampmann: I'll knock Hendricks' ass out

Martin Kampmann is a former training partner of Johny Hendricks, and he is convinced he boasts the slicker skill-set ahead of the pair's welterweight title eliminator at UFC 154.

Kampmann is riding a three-fight win streak following his TKO victory over Jake Ellenberger, and - as the last man to beat Carlos Condit - his title prospects will receive a huge boost if Condit beats Georges St-Pierre in the November 17 main event.

However, to stay near the top of the 170lb pile the Dane must overcome Hendricks, who is coming off wins over Josh Koscheck and Jon Fitch. Both men carry serious momentum into their Montreal encounter.

Hendricks boasts the better wrestling and greater knockout power, while Kampmann brings a submissions arsenal and slick kickboxing. The pair know each other well, and Kampmann is seriously confident.

"I've worked hard and I've beaten some tough dudes to get my title shot, and right now Johny Hendricks is in my way and I'm going to knock his ass out to get it," Kampmann said.

"Hendricks punches with a lot of power and his punches come from different angles, but his biggest strength is his wrestling.

"I used to train with him in Vegas. I still feel I'm a lot slicker than him. My wrestling has come a long way so I reckon I can beat his ass and defend the takedown."

The fight is scheduled for three rounds in Canada, something that disappoints Kampmann, but he is prepared to overcome whoever it takes, in whatever circumstances to get his crack at UFC gold.

"I prefer five-round fights, because it gives us more time to get a finish. As it lasts three rounds, I'll have to finish it in three rounds.

"I want to fight for the title, I'm going to get the title, and I'm going to keep knocking people out and beating people up.

"I haven't shown the best of my striking at all. I've got a lot left to show."

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