L. Machida could make his debut in Brazilian territory for the UFC in August. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
Former UFC light heavyweight champion, Lyoto Machida You may be close to realizing your dream of playing in your country for the biggest organization in the world. According to what was reported by the PVT website, Dragão should face the North American Phil Davis at UFC Rio 4.
Lyoto was tipped to be number one challenger for Jon Jones after winning Dan Henderson in the co-main fight of UFC 157. However, with the injury suffered by the champion in the victory over Chael Sonnen, at UFC 159, the eventual duel did not have a date to take place. As Lyoto has said on a few occasions that he wouldn't like to sit still for too long, the fight against Davis will occupy his time while he awaits a decision from the UFC on the next challenger – Alexander Gustafson is also competing for the position.
If made official by the UFC, the fight against Machida will be Davis' second time in Brazil. In October last year, the American had no difficulty submitting Wagner Caldeirão at UFC Rio 3. Davis returned to the octagon at UFC 159, in April, when he overcame fellow Brazilian Vinny Pezão. Lyoto will be Phil's fourth Brazilian opponent in the UFC: at UFC Fight Night 24, in 2011, he had already won Rogério Minotouro.
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