“From a lot of people’s perspectives, this isn’t a fight that he necessarily wanted,” Pierce said. “In a lot of people’s eyes, he has a lot to lose in this, and I understand that. For him to take the fight is a good thing for me and I appreciate it, but I don’t think this is one that he was looking forward to taking.”

Although Koscheck has his share of detractors, Pierce didn’t push for the fight because he hates him. In fact, he said he actually likes his upcoming opponent.

“I was a fan of him back when ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ first came on TV,” Pierce said. “He was the wrestler guy. I’ve always been in the corner of wrestlers. … I always root for them, but yeah, I was a fan of his and now it’s just at the time where I’ve got to get in there and fight now.”

read entire article...

Related MMA gear from the UG Store

Dethrone Kos Tee (Josh Koscheck UFC 124 Walkout Tee) $27.99 $11.99

Century Official UFC Fight Gloves Only $59.99

tags-: Mike Pierce (detail)  Josh Koscheck (detail)  UFC