Ryan Bader: I want to kick Daniel Cormier's ass
After getting stopped by Glover Teixeira in 2013, light heavyweight Ryan Bader had lost two out of his last three fights. Since then, however, he's gone on a five-fight win streak, capped by an impressive decision victory over former champion Rashad Evans this past Saturday at UFC 192.
According to Bader, his fortunes began to change once his psychology did. "My mentality is different," he told Megan Olivi immediately after his fight with Evans.
"I decided that I want to be a champ. I want to be the best in this sport. I have the right people behind me and all that together is driving me, pushing me to be the best."
Bader's decision to change his mindset also prompted him and his Power MMA team to make technical changes in his preparation. Though the wrestler has always had dangerous hands, he's recently begun to expand his striking training to include the lower half of his body more as well.
"I was usually doing just straight boxing, not using my feet or anything, then we brought in Chaz Turner," he explained, speaking of his new striking coach.
"You saw more kicks. You saw me be a little more agile on the feet, even from the last fight. I'm going to continue to get better. I feel like I'm just hitting my stride. I'm comfortable in there. Every time I get out there, I'm going to get better and better."
After yet another win, Bader was able to sigh with relief and have the last word, after months of taunts from not just Evans, but also division champion Daniel Cormier. Now that he's gotten through "Suga," the surging "Darth" wants the champ.
"Calling me the easiest fight in the division, and whatever, look what that got Rashad," he said.
"All respect to Rashad. He came out there and fought, he came off of two knee surgeries. He's the man. But, at the same time, I got through him and now DC is calling me out. That's who I want ... I want to kick DC's ass."
