UFC 5 - COLEMAN VS SHOGUN

UFC 5 - COLEMAN VS SHOGUN

The UFC 93 fight between Mark Coleman and Mauricio "Shogun" Rua was set to be an intriguing rematch, scheduled for January 17, 2009, in Dublin, Ireland. This light heavyweight bout was highly anticipated, as it offered both fighters a chance to prove themselves in the UFC for different reasons.

Mark Coleman, at 44 years old, was making his return to the UFC after a long absence. Known as "The Godfather of Ground and Pound," Coleman was a former UFC heavyweight champion and had last competed in the organization from 1996 to 1999. This fight marked his debut in the light heavyweight division, adding an element of uncertainty to his performance.

Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, on the other hand, was looking to redeem himself after a disappointing UFC debut against Forrest Griffin in 2007. Following that loss, Rua had undergone two knee surgeries, raising questions about his physical condition and fighting form. This rematch against Coleman presented an opportunity for Shogun to prove he was still a top contender in the light heavyweight division.

The fight carried additional significance as it was a rematch of their controversial first encounter at Pride 31 on February 26, 2006. That bout had ended in a TKO victory for Coleman, but the circumstances surrounding the finish left many fans unsatisfied. Rua himself had expressed that their previous fight needed "a real ending," adding to the anticipation for this rematch.

As the co-main event of UFC 93, this fight was poised to be a pivotal moment for both fighters' careers. For Coleman, it was a chance to show he could still compete at the highest level despite his age. For Rua, it was an opportunity to avenge his previous loss and regain his status as one of the top light heavyweights in the world.