Belfort against Akiyama at UFC 133 / UFC publicity photo
This Saturday the UFC released the card for its next event in Brazil, to take place January 19. While no official announcement of the host city has been made, despite rumors pointing to São Paulo, the promoters are banking on Vitor Belfort’s charisma and the expectations surrounding former TUF cast member Daniel Sarafian’s return, since withdrawing from the middleweight final due to a bicep injury, to stir up excitement for the show.
Belfort will face Michael Bisping, and the winner is being tipped to take on newcomer-contender Chris Weidman for a shot at middleweight kingpin Anderson Silva.
And making his comeback in another intriguing match-up, Gabriel Napão will take on the heavy-handed Ben Rothwell. Thiago Tavares will also have his hands full, as he squares off with the undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Check out the card as it stands, and comment: does this card float your boat, gentle Jiu-Jitsu and MMA fan?
UFC Brasil
Brasil
January 19, 2012
Vitor Belfort vs Michael Bisping
CB Dollaway vs Daniel Sarafian
Ben Rothwell vs Gabriel Napão
Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Thiago Tavares
Under card
Miltinho Vieira vs Godofredo Pepey
Ronny Markes vs Andrew Craig
Nik Lentz vs Diego Nunes
Justin Salas vs Edson Barboza
CJ Keith vs Francisco Massaranduba
George Roop vs Iuri Marajó
Roger Hollett vs Wagner Caldeirão
Michael Kuiper vs Thiago Bodão
