Tyrone Spong Speaks on K-1, Kickboxing in America, Training With Rashad Evans

Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting spoke with Tyrone Spong ahead of UFC 133, as the K-1 veteran has been helping prepare Rashad Evans for his light heavyweight bout against Tito Ortiz. Spong's feelings on the upcoming bout are fairly evident; he believes that Rashad Evans has a distinct advantage in the striking department, with superior speed and footwork.

As for Spong's potential future in MMA, it seems to be an option that he is willing to leave open.

The more immediate concern for Spong is what is going on in the world of heavyweight kickboxing. His take on matters related to K-1 specifically are the usual: they owe him money, he's not fighting until they pay him, he's heard the rumors regarding a K-1 World Grand Prix in October, and his performance last year means he'll included if/when it happens. Oh, and he wants another bout with Alistair Overeem.

Also check out what Spong has to say when Helwani asks him about the disconnect between the popularity of kickboxing in America and elsewhere in the world.