The belt could be getting to the middleweight champion’s head.

UFC 194 saw the crowning of a new middleweight kingpin as Luke Rockhold took the fight to then undefeated champion Chris Weidman. The two battled for four rounds until it was clear that Rockhold was the better man that night. Rockhold’s heart, technique, grit, and determination propelled him to a TKO victory over Weidman who had never lost an MMA fight beforehand. It was one of the best fights of 2015 that showcased two of the best middleweight fighters in the world in a battle of wills and skills. All that being said, many people have made excuses for the reasons behind Weidman’s defeat. The former champion himself stated that a broken foot hindered his ability to fight to the best of his ability. Some say that if he never attempted the wheel kick against Rockhold and got taken down, that Weidman still could have found a road to victory. I for one don’t agree. The truth of the matter is that Rockhold was the technically superior fighter that night and fought a measured and calculating fight. Despite the dominant victory however, Rockhold and Weidman are set to rematch at UFC 199 with the winner walking away with bragging rights and shinny belt, while the loser will have to travel the road of the defeated, a bitter pill to swallow. Heading into their rematch, both Rockhold and Weidman appear to be different men. Weidman is fired up and angered at the perceived arrogance of Rockhold, while the champion is extremely nonchalant and relaxed. But I’m thinking that could be a mistake heading into UFC 199. While Rockhold may have walked away victorious the first time around, it was his hunger and drive that pushed him to overcome Weidman. At a recent EA UFC 2 launch party, Rockhold expressed that he doesn’t “feel threatened by Chris.” It’s fine to have confidence, but if Rockhold takes it too far, it’s not unreasonable that he could be awakening a beast in the form of Chris Weidman. The former champion has never tasted defeat in MMA and is likely preparing himself for another all out war with Rockhold, one that is very conceivable for him to win. Come June 4 we’ll see which will overcome, confidence or hungry determination. Do you think Luke Rockhold is making a mistake in underestimating Chris Weidman? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.

Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.