Lyoto Machida has called on the UFC to give him a rematch with Rampage Jackson if he beats Randy Couture at UFC 129.
Machida suffered a controversial decision loss to Jackson at UFC 123, and he now faces the prospect of losing three in a row if beaten by Couture on April 30.
However, Machida sees things the other way, claiming a rightful victory over Rampage would have given him a title rematch with Mauricio Shogun Rua, after Rashad Evans pulled out due to a knee injury. In the end, Jon Jones fought Rua to win the belt, so Machida's immediate goal is claiming revenge over Rampage.
"That fight was not conclusive. It would be a great fight and nothing would be more fair than a revenge because even Rampage himself recognized the loss at the end," Machida told Fighters Only.
"I was sad about the loss because I would have been the next in line after Rashad Evans, who got injured and couldn't dispute the belt. Then it would have been me fighting Shogun and not Jon Jones - but that's okay, I think now I have got to look for what belongs to me."
Asked who he wants to fight after Couture, Machida replied: "Rampage. The revenge with Rampage would be the fight I would choose after defeating Couture. It makes all the sense."
Couture will no doubt attempt to out-wrestle Machida at UFC 129, employing plenty of clinches to stay on top. The Brazilian admits it is a concern that wrestlers can find ways to overpower their foes.
"These guys are coming very strong in power now. Phil Davis for example, who is lighter than other heavyweights, used his strength to hold the fight with Rogerio Minotouro. There exists a concern with this aspect, certainly."
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