MMA star Kimbo Slice ready for challenge against veteran fighter

If the mixed-martial arts purists have their way, Kimbo Slice will be completely exposed as a fraud.

If the millions of Internet surfers have their way, Slice will grow even larger in his legendary status.

Slice began as an alleyway brawler, then an Internet sensation and is now rising in MMA fame.

Slice will face his first serious challenge Oct. 4 against UFC Hall of Famer — but 44-year-old — shootfighter Ken Shamrock.

Slice (3-0) and Shamrock (26-13-2) go prime time on CBS after Slice blew open the ratings with the broadcast network debut.

Slice took questions Thursday previewing his Elite XC heavyweight bout against Shamrock.

What’s your prediction?

"I never predict a fight, but the only thing I can say is we’re going to keep the streaks the way they are. Ken is going to stay on his [five-fight losing] streak and I’m going to stay on mine."

Would you have been better served to take on a few lesser fighters before facing Shamrock?

"I fight whoever they put in front of me. I have never turned down one name. I’ve never thought I’ll fight this guy or not fight that guy. My promoters, they line them up and I knock them down, that’s what it’s all about. If you don’t want to fight this guy, then that says a lot about you as a fighter, you’re not ready for what you’re doing. I’ll fight anybody."

Is there anything you look to exploit in Shamrock?

"Being a good grappler like I am and being a good striker like Ken — I’m going to break his leg."

Is this a step up for you?

"I grew up watching Ken. He’s a damn great fighter, a Hall of Famer. So I’m honored to fight Ken, to beat him, that’s bragging rights, right there."

What have you been doing since the last fight?

"I’ve been training harder, harder than before."

Ken is a master of submissions. What have you done to improve your ground game?

"You will see Oct. 4."

Has your training focused on that in a particular way?

"I learn a lot every time I come out to training camp. I’m still a rookie at it. I have the heart of a giant and the willpower of 10 men. With that in mind and the training I have, and the trainers I have, Ken is going to be like my pancakes. I’m going to eat him up."

Do you think this fight will make you a complete fighter?

"Every fight makes me a complete fighter. Every dog has his day. Everything that goes up must come down. Losing is not an option, but if it happens, I’ll learn from it and come back from it."

Do you feel fighting someone like Shamrock is a dream come true?

"I’m honored to fight Shamrock. I’m bragging about it. I’m excited about it. ... If I lose to Shamrock, it’s not a bad thing, but if I can kick his [rear] is a better thing. Either way I look at it as a positive. Either way I look at it in a good way."