Weidman (left) x Rockhold (right) does not have a date yet. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS Production (Josh Hedges/UFC)
Ronaldo Jacare knew he had an arduous crusade ahead of him to try to convince the UFC that he, and not the North American Luke Rockhold, was the right name for the next title fight in the middleweight category. The Brazilian tried hard, investing in self-promotion and controversial statements, but, on Wednesday night (03), the organization confirmed that Rockhold will be the opponent of Chris Weidman, postponing the dream of Espírito Santo.
During his appearance on “UFC Tonight”, the event's official newspaper on North American TV, president Dana White announced the next fight for the title in the under 84 kg category. “Yes, that will be the next fight. Luke Rockhold will be the next to face Chris Weidman”, said the leader, without mentioning, however, the possible date or event of the fight.
At 30, Luke Rockhold has a professional record of 14 wins and two losses. Former middleweight champion of the extinct Strikeforce, he is currently ranked first in the Ultimate rankings and has won four consecutive victories, the most recent of which was over Lyoto Machida.
Yes, Chris Weidman, has a record of 13 wins in 13 fights in professional MMA. Facing Rockhold, the “All American” will have his first opponent in a non-Brazilian title fight. Weidman won the title beating Anderson Silva, also defeated by him in the rematch, later went through Lyoto Machida and, more recently, knocked out Vitor belfort.
