• UFC

Forrest Griffin wary after long layoff

ESPN staff
January 27, 2011
Forrest Griffin came through a war against Tito Ortiz © UFC
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Forrest Griffin has admitted he fears ring-rust could be a problem when he steps back into the Octagon against Rich Franklin at UFC 126.

A shoulder injury forced Griffin to miss the whole of 2010 and he has not fought since his thrilling win over Tito Ortiz in November 2009. His spell on the sidelines will come to an end when he takes on former middleweight champion Rich Franklin in Las Vegas on February 5.

The clash with Franklin, who is also on the comeback trail from injury, at light heavyweight is one of the main fights on a stellar card at the Mandalay Bay headed by the title bout between Anderson Silva and Vitor Belfort and as such expectation is high.

Griffin is aware of the threat carried by Franklin and the expectation surrounding his return to action, but he is aware he may not be fully sharp.

"A good break now and then is great for your body, but it was too long," Griffin said. "This is the most ring rust I've ever had. I'm not excited about it."

Griffin also admits that the nerves are jangling as the fight draws closer. "Being off for the year, that's huge," he said. "It's a weird feeling. I'm a little more nervous than usual."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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