Ludwig: "Strikeforce: Payback is my chance at redemption."

Fighters.com got a chance to speak briefly with welterweight “Bang” Duane Ludwig (16-8) about his upcoming fight against “The Squeeze” Sam Morgan (19-11) in Denver Friday.

Fighters.com: What are your thoughts as you prepare to step into the cage for the second time against Sam Morgan?

Duane Ludwig: Mostly I’m looking at this as my chance at redemption.

Fighters.com: Does that mean that Strikeforce: Payback is going to live up to its name?

Duane Ludwig: Yeah, hopefully that’s how it turns out.

Fighters.com: You’ve had knockouts against formidable strikers like Jonathan Goulet (22-9) and “Lil Evil” Jens Pulver (22-9-1), are you looking to take out your revenge in the form of a knockout?

Duane Ludwig: No, I’m just looking for a win.  I don’t care how it happens, I’m just want to get the win back.

Fighters.com: Having fought Morgan before, what aspects of your training have changed for this fight?

Duane Ludwig: I’m more well-rounded now.  We work a lot more ground and a lot more wrestling, but it’s not because of Sam.  I’m looking to become a better fighter all around.

Fighters.com: You are coming off a tough loss to [fighters.com's second ranked lightweight "The Fireball Kid" Takanori Gomi (28-3-1)] while Morgan has lost his last three fights, however, Morgan still doesn’t feel as though he is the underdog in this fight.  Do you feel like an underdog coming into this fight?

Duane Ludwig: No, no I don’t think I’m an underdog, but whatever, its fine.

Fighters.com: Morgan commented on his motivation by saying that he fights to live, he doesn’t live to fight. What drives you to fight?

Duane Ludwig: I’m just wired that way I guess.