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Notes From The UFC 134 Pre-Fight Press Conference

Dana White opens the press conference by thanking the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro and introducing the Secretary of Tourism who welcomes the fighters to the city.

On stage with White are Anderson Silva, Yushin Okami, Mauricio Rua, Forrest Griffin, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Brendan Schaub.

First question is about the size of the venue and whether the UFC plans to return to Brazil. The answer is yes, the UFC is very interested in returning to Brazil.

Next question about the reception from the Brazilian business community. Dana White says it's been very good.

Question for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira -- one month ago you told me you were at 70% physical condition after 3 surgeries. I'm feeling excellent, very motivated, had a great camp with Raphael "Feijao" Cavalcante. 

Question for Anderson Silva -- in your last three fights the pre-fight build-up has been very polemical but you and Okami have shown a lot of respect. Silva: I was raised to respond in the fashion that I am treated. Okami has been very respectful.

Dana White refutes questions that he has a poor relationship with Anderson Silva. "I truly believe he's the best ever, but there's no bad blood between Anderson and myself at least on my side. We'll be back but all I care about right now is UFC: Rio."

Brendan Schaub talked about his outreach project to a favela, where he'll be delivering training equipment to dis-advantaged Brazilian slum children. 

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Dana White talk about what a huge deal it is for the Brazilian fighters to finally get to fight in their home country. Dana: "There's going to be a lot more talent coming out of Brazil. We going to do some cool things down here in Brazil other than just put on fights."

Ariel Helwani: Anderson you talked about leaving the sport in your mid-thirties a few years ago, do you still think about that? Anderson: I'm very happy for this great chance for the sport in Brazil. Dana White: He changed his mind, he's going to stay active until his mid-40's.

Helwani: Anderson Silva did you train with Steven Seagal for this fight? Anderson: No, I didn't train with the master for this fight but he will be at the fight.