Shoguns lost it.

[Appylion]

I agree with you, sadly..
I believe he IS a uber level gatekeeper.. as hard it is for me to say

 

[AP_RESURRECTION]

So after the Gus fight I thought about Shogun and his place in the division.
He is in his 30's now and is unlikely to improve his game significantly from this point on, he's had multiple surgeries on his knees and it seems many of his weapons have been taken from him by the aforementioned injuries and age.
He has taken serious damage throughout his career and lately in particular, his style had reverted from a multifaceted striker to a very one dimensional slugger. He is over reliant on his big overhand, lacks the wrestling to consistently defend the takedown or fully implement a top game. His grappling is still dangerous but he lacks finishing ability with his subs and often leaves himself open on the mat, his cardio remains a major weakness and he is a step behind most modern fighters with his strength and conditioning programme it seems.
He could stick around as an upper level gatekeeper for a while IMO but I dont think we'll see him contend again, he's gone the way of Fedor and let the game pass him by, he's accomplished alot and given us great moments but he wont remain competitive unless he makes some serious changes.
Thoughts?

i think your assessment is right on - i expect him to get big wins here and there with his power and chin, but elite fighters at LHW who come with smart gameplans should beat him

mma has some serious talent at the elite levels these days

 

[Cazador]

I see your point TS. It's kinda shocking that at only 31 looks like the days of him being in the top three of the division are over.

 

[Cosmahorio]

Yep, I regrettably have to agree TS.

I just hope They match him up with Machida a 3rd timebbefore he hangs them up.