Luke Rockhold v Michael Bisping: UFC fighters warm up for showdown in Sydney

UFC fighters Luke Rockhold and Michael Bisping have warmed up for their bout in Sydney on November 8 with a fiery slanging match.

MACAU - AUGUST 23: Michael Bisping celebrates after winning his middleweight fight against Cung Le of USA during the UFC Fight Night at The Venetian Macao Cotai Arena on August 23, 2014 in Macau, China. (Photo by Victor Fraile/Getty Images) *** BESTPIX ***

UFC fighters Luke Rockhold and Michael Bisping have warmed up for their bout in Sydney on November 8 with a fiery slanging match.

Speaking at a joint press conference to promote the fight this morning, Rockhold predicted he would finish Bisping in one round.

“I’m big on doing my homework, I study my opponents through and through,” Rockhold said.

“I see a lot of openings, and I know what I’m capable of … I know I can put him away. I just don’t see what he’s going to do to stop me.

“I’m looking to go out there and embarrass this man.”

Luke Rockhold — fighter, or beach model?

Rockhold, a 29-year-old fighter from the US, used to be the Strikeforce middleweight champion. He’s been feuding with Bisping for two years, since a particularly well-placed sledge from the British veteran in 2012.

Bisping reckoned he was a better fighter than Rockhold back then. He had some sharp words for his opponent today as well.

Michael Bisping celebrates after winning his middleweight fight against Cung Le on August 23.

“We’ve heard this before,” he said of Rockhold’s bluster.

“Will you finish me in the first round? No. Will you finish me at all? No.

“I certainly don’t like guys that go out and molest tigers while they’re under the influence of tranquillisers.”

Bisping was referring to this photo, which Rockhold posted on his Instagram account two weeks ago.

It’s certainly a spicy match-up then. Rockhold and Bisping will contest the main bout for UFC Fight Night at Sydney’s Allphones Arena on November 8. Tickets go on sale at 10am tomorrow.