Lawler-Shields Set for Strikeforce on Showtime

“Ruthless” Robbie Lawler will meet Jake Shields in a June 6 Strikeforce bout to be televised on Showtime, the promotion announced this week.

The matchup is set for the Scottrade Center in St. Louis.

“My grappling’s better than his striking,” said Shields, 22-4-1, who has won 11 straight fights. “I’ve been working on my striking a lot, though, and I think it’s a lot better than some people give me credit for. I’m not going to say I’m a better striker than Lawler because that would be stupid. Lawler is one of the better strikers out there.”

Lawler, 16-4, is known for his punching power. He’ll also be the bigger fighter on June 6.

“It’s a fight that makes sense,” Shields said. “We’re both already known to the Showtime viewers. He’s a top middleweight and I’m a top-ranked welterweight. It makes me want to train really hard. I know I’ve got to be ready because, if I’m not, he’s going to kick me in the head or punch me and knock me out. I’m super-excited to come in at my best.”

Also announced was the first Strikeforce light heavyweight title defense for Renato “Babalu” Sobral, who will take on touted prospect Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante.