UFC boss: All four FOX headliners considered for title shot
Light heavyweight drama.
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UPDATE 7/31/12: Dana White confirms to USAToday.com that whichever light heavyweight looks most impressive in victory, they will get the next title shot. That now includes Ryan Bader and Lyoto Machida.
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On Monday, UFC president confirmed during a conference call that the winner of Mauricio "Shogun" Rua (20-6) vs. Brandon Vera (12-5, 1 NC) in the main event of UFC on FOX 4 this Saturday night, will receive a light heavyweight title shot.
Yes, even Vera, who has won approximately one fight since 2009, will be next in line if he scores a miracle upset.
It should be noted that current UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones (16-1) has run through both Rua and Vera--along with the entire division--the last two years. Assuming Jones retains his title as expected by many observers at UFC 151 against Dan Henderson, he will be heavily favored to send Rua or Vera to the hospital again.
Just because Rua or Vera would be favorable matchups for Jones doesn't make the champ any happier, according to his Twitter feed.
Scratching my head “
@fightcovemike:@jonnybones The winner of Shogun vs. Vera is guaranteed #1 contender at 205.”— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) July 30, 2012
Sounds like the champ isn't impressed with his boss' proposition. Alexander Gustafsson (14-1), who is the light heavyweight division's hottest prospect, has won five straight fights, but may not be ready for the main event level just yet. White did state that Gustafsson will have a big name lined up for him soon (possibly the Ryan Bader vs. Lyoto Machida winner), which could push him further into contention.
UFC on FOX 4: Shogun vs. Vera takes place Saturday August 4, 2012, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif.
Main Card on FOX (8pm/ET)
Light heavyweight bout: Mauricio "Shogun" Rua (20-6) vs. Brandon Vera (12-5) - Five round main event
Light heavyweight bout: Ryan Bader (14-2) vs. Lyoto Machida (17-3)
Welterweight bout: DaMarques Johnson (15-10) vs. Mike Swick (14-4) - This is TUF 1 alum Swick's first fight in nearly three years, after battle throat/stomach complications and recovering from a torn ACL.
Lightweight bout: Joe Lauzon (21-7) vs. Jamie Varner (20-6-1) - Varner replaces the injured Terry Etim and has a chance to go 2-0 in his UFC/Zuffa comeback
