FightLine.com: You were the very first UFC light heavyweight champion, winning the belt back in 1997. You last defended it in 1999, defeating Tito Ortiz before deciding to retire. What was that time like, and how much longer do you see yourself fighting?

Frank Shamrock: Fighting Tito was definitely a highlight of my career. And you know, I'm here ten years later, and trying to do two fights a year. I hope to keep going until I'm 45, so nine more years.

Fightline.com: How is the sport different today than when you started fighting?

Shamrock: The biggest things are regulation and education. We really knew nothing about what was going on. We would look at guys and try and figure out what style they were doing and what techniques they’re using. It really matured into a sport.

Fightline.com: How much better, on average, would you say the fighters are today than when you first started fighting?

Shamrock: On average, 100 percent.

Fightline.com: Of all of the fights you have had and opponents you've faced, who would you most like to have a rematch with?

Shamrock: I like to fight. If I could rematch someone, I would rematch them all. If I like people, I want to fight them. Not in a negative way.

Fightline.com: So would you want to rematch with Nick Diaz?

Shamrock: I looked like crap against Nick, so I’d definitely want to fight Nick again.

Fightline.com: Do you feel like you’ve reached the peak of your career?

Shamrock: Well, I’m 37 now, so certainly my best physical days are behind me. But I’m the best mentally that I’ve ever been.