Thompson: I don't really have much else to add, other than what Jake said. I think for younger guys, winning streaks can be difficult because if they get in adversity, they're not used to it. But Jake and I are both veteran fighters. We're used to adversity and we're also used to winning.

Shields: We fight good fighters, too. We're not just on these winning streaks versus no one, which is a big difference.

Question: Thomas, what does it mean to you to be on CBS? Could you explain that feeling?

Denny: It feels awesome. Obviously it's the biggest stage I've been on. I've been fighting in this game for nine years, busting my hump, raising a family and having a gym and everything else that I do. This is just a real huge opportunity. I'm glad to be a part of it. It's been a long time coming.

Question: Thomas, what is your biggest concern with Nick?

Denny: My biggest concern with Nick? His hard head (laughter). The guy, he takes a beating, you know what I mean? He's a real durable guy. He doesn't care if he's bleeding and bloody and swollen, he just keeps coming. I think it's going to make for a really good fight.

Question: Thomas, there were some comments attributed to you regarding Nick's inability to make weight in his last fights. Do you think fighters feel too much pressure to fight when their opponent doesn't make weight?

Denny: I don't know if they feel too much pressure. But, I mean, it's the rules, man. Rules are rules. They're meant to be followed. If you sign a contract that says you're going to weigh 160, you should come in at 160, not 169. So, I don't know, I just think it's unprofessional.

Question: Thomas, what do you think a win over Nick Diaz right now does for your career?

Denny: It shoots me to the top, man and hopefully sets me up for a fight against KJ or Yves (Edwards). I would love to fight KJ for the belt. That's a lot to ask for. But, hopefully, I go out and shine like I feel like I should and maybe I'll get recognized enough to get the title shot.

Question: Jake, why did you pick Nick for this fight? Do you feel your styles match up to make for an exciting fight and why?

Shields: Well, I didn't necessarily pick Nick. But I definitely wanted Nick Thompson because I just felt like he's at the top of his game and I'm looking to fight the best. (Plus, he) was quoted saying he wanted to fight me. Do I think it's an exciting fight? Definitely. We're both well-rounded. I know I'm going to come out at Nick, and Nick is going to come at me. Neither one of us are going to go out and dance around, try to win a decision. I'm going to go out there and try to finish him. I know he's going to do the same. I think it should be a really exciting fight.