FiveKnuckles.com: (Laughs) I guess we can laugh about it now, but nobody really knows what a fighter goes through in preparation for a fight. As long as you're healthy and we get to see you back in the UFC, that's all that really matters. In saying that, how did Sam react to that fight being scrapped?

Phillipe Nover: Sam Stout is a gentleman. Immediately after he heard what was going on, he came and shook my hand while I was lying there receiving attention. Even before the fight, we had no animosity towards each other. I've worked in the past with Shawn Tompkins who is Sam's brother in law. We were in the same classes and we respected each other. He's moved on and really took Joe Lauzon apart at UFC 108. Sam's an excellent fighter with a lot to look forward to.

FiveKnuckles.com: In your last fight against Kyle Bradley, some would say that the ref stopped the fight a bit prematurely. What is your take on what happened?

Phillipe Nover: I obviously thought the ref could've let it go a little longer. I was going for a standing guard sweep when the fight was stopped. If you look at the referee's motions, he interfered for a second, stepped back, and then interfered again stopping the fight. He showed hesitation and it looked very unprofessional. He even apologized to me after it was all said in done. I know the ref is worried about the safety of the fighter, but he could've let that one go at least a few more seconds. I think he viewed the takedown as more of a punch, but it wasn't. He landed a punch after he took me down. It probably looked worse than it was, but he didn't knock me down, he took me down.

FiveKnuckles.com: Is it safe to say that you're happy 2009 is long gone?

Phillipe Nover: 2009 has been a down year with everything that's been going on. Losing the finale, the loss to [Kyle] Bradley, and passing out backstage were all tough spots to be in. In '09 I felt like I was forced into situations I didn't want to be in. I felt pressured into fighting and I really wasn't enjoying myself, but I don't have to do anything I don't want to.

I could go back into nursing and not worry about getting punched in the face every day, but this is what I want to do. I love fighting and I want to tap into the enjoyable side of it all. 2010 is going to be my year and I'm going out there to have some fun. That's the only thing on my mind right now and 2010 starts with Rob Emerson.

FiveKnuckles.com: What are your thoughts on your upcoming opponent?

Make sure to check back with us the day of the event for free, live, round-by-round coverage of UFC 109 right here at FiveKnuckles.com! Join expert analyst Mike Williams as he takes you through the entire fight card blow-by-blow and then keep it right here for all the post-fight news and notes you can handle!