MMA Recap

Recapping Before The Fight - Alberto Crane

by Matt Clarmont - 01-21-2010

Alberto Crane found himself in the big time in 2007 but he ran into one of the world's toughest lightweights for his UFC debut. After taking Roger Huerta to the third round, he was then matched up with then-contender and near top 10 Kurt Pellegrino who managed to dispatch him as well. Shortly thereafter, Crane found his focus and reeled off 4 consecutive wins before being stopped by Tony Hervey last June.

Seeking to get back to his winning ways won't be an easy task as he faces Called Out MMA and Affliction veteran Albert Rios on Sunday at the Citizen's Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California for Called Out MMA II. A win here could reinvigorate a run toward a second chance in the UFC.

MMA Recap's Matt Clarmont recently picked his brain as he finished up preparations for his upcoming battle with Rios.

How is your training going for this fight?

Training is going great, I feel great.

You are primarily known as a grappler but I've heard you've been working a lot on your stand-up lately. How has that been going for you?

I'm just trying to become a more complete martial artist. Stand up and ground, I've been working hard on everything, in all aspects, to become a complete mixed martial arts fighter.

Have you been training with any specific people that have helped you out?

Rick O'Cain as well as Walter Michalowski, from Sityodtong in L.A. But mainly Rick O'Cain

You are coming down from 155 lbs. For this fight at a catchweight of 150. How has the extra weight cut gone?

It's going...It's not easy. I'm eating a little less, I'm a little more hungry but it's fine. It makes me more hungry for the fight itself so I'm excited. I can't wait.

Do you feel that a slight size advantage is going to play a role in this fight?

I think I'll have a reach advantage but we'll be the same weight so I don't think it will be much different. I think Rios is a tough guy so, you know, we'll see.

You are set to headline this card at the arena in Ontario. How does it feel being the main attraction of an arena level event?

I've been fighting for awhile so, for me it's just another day at the office.

You've fought on a big stage before and this event will likely be the biggest stage you've competed on in a couple of years. Are you at all concerned with getting back to the big time?

I've been taking this one fight at a time so all that matters right now is this fight. Me winning, doing well in this fight, that's all that matters.

How has your experience with Called Out been, as far as working with them for this fight?

They've been great besides the fights being called off in November. Otherwise, Mike Rush and everybody have been great.

You've fought in the UFC before, is it your goal to work your way back there again?

Absolutely, I'd love to get back in the big show. I'm working for that. Like I said, one fight at a time, get through this fight and we'll go from there.
 

Are there any sponsors or other people you wish to thank for this fight?

I'd like to thank Adam Roseman, Robert Glickman, and doctor Harrison Lee for their sponsorships as well as No Gi.

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