UFC 128 in Quotes

 “Words can’t describe how I feel right now. That’s a big win over a tough opponent," says UFC newcomer Eric Koch after his first-round knockout win over Raphael Assuncao at UFC 128.

"This was my UFC debut and I came out looking to impress.” (On the fight-ending right hook) "That Duke Roufus and Scott Cushman right there. Scott worked that hook with me, so a big thanks goes out to him.”

Nick Catone: “I had 250 people here to see me fight [against Constantinos Philippou]. I heard them up in the stands screaming for me and that gave me the inspiration to keep pushing forward.” “I followed through on my game plan, was able to ground and pound and earn the victory.”

Joseph Benavidez: “I didn’t give him [Ian Loveland] much of a chance. I thought I was going to finish him. The difference in the fight was my speed and my conditioning. I do have to give him credit on his wrestling and his defense. I’m in a weird position because Dominick [Cruz] beat me twice and Urijah [Faber] is my best friend and if he wins he’ll be the No. 1 contender.”

Gleison Tibau:  “After I got knocked down in the second I knew it was time to go. I was very happy to beat Kurt Pellegrino in his home state. I feel that after this win I have earned a top 10 fighter in the division.

Mike Pyle: “I was not content with the victory. I wanted the finish. I’m 70 percent happy tonight. I didn’t want this to go to decision. When he dropped me earlier, that was the turning point of the fight because it woke me up. I want to fight the best in the world. I feel better than I have ever felt.”

Edson Barboza: “I’m very happy and I want to thank God. I wanted to strike and kick more but I had an injury coming in and I wasn’t able to work my striking the way I wanted to. I got to showcase my takedowns and jiu-jitsu. I’m sorry I couldn’t kick more, but I was hurt and I promise to give a better performance next time.”

Luiz Cane: “I feel reborn again as a fighter. I wanted a knockout because it reminded me of my first victory in UFC. You’re going to be seeing more of that because I’m becoming a more technical fighter. I want to make a run for the title but that’s a while off because I have to prove myself. I hope that I can fight in Brazil so I can fight in front of my people.”

Brendan Schaub: “This is the second legend I’ve gotten in a row. This is a big turning point in my return. The thing with Cro Cop is he puts both feet even before he throws the kick, so I timed it and threw the big right hand. I’m no dummy. I know Cro Cop is a world-class kickboxer and that’s why I went for the takedowns. I feel like my speed was the difference.”