UFC New Jersey: Bader x Johnson and 5 Brazilians

The entire controversy surrounding the cancellation of Fabricio Werdum e Cain Velazquez and the UFC 196 imbroglio stole the spotlight in last week's MMA news. But make no mistake: this Saturday's event (30) is worthy of attention for those who enjoy action inside the Octagon.

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This is because UFC on FOX 18, which will be held in the city of Newark, New Jersey (USA), could define the next challenger for the belt in one of the organization's most prestigious categories. Ryan bader e Anthony Johnson will take part in the main fight of the night, hoping to then face off against the 93 kg champion. Furthermore, the show features five Brazilians in action.

Bader vs. Johnson

Known for his ups and downs inside the octagon, Bader has been in the best phase of his career since winning TUF 8 in 2008. The American has won five in a row, including triumphs over Phil Davis e Rashad evans, and a new positive result against Johnson should give him the long-awaited title shot.

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However, stopping is not easy. Johnson is recognized as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, famous for his heavy hands and merciless striking. Names like Alexander Gustafson, Rogério Minotouro and Jimi Manuwa joined the group of recent “Rumble” victims.

Precisely for this reason, the fight is intriguing in terms of style. Bader should rely on wrestling to win the fight, while Johnson, who also has experience in grappling, could resolve the issue at any time with a standing strike. Everything points to a tense duel in the octagon, in which fans won't be able to blink if they don't want to miss any details.

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Furthermore, the heavyweight category, the target of so much controversy over the last week, will also have an important fight. Veteran Josh Barnett, former category champion, will try to score another victory and show that, despite the long time on the road, he is experiencing the best moment of his career. On the other side of the Octagon, however, he has a tough opponent. Ben Rothwell won three in a row, including against the popular alistair overeem, and wants to take a definitive step on the route to the belt.

Another star of the night is Sage Northcutt, youngest active UFC athlete, at 19 years old. The North American, who will be fighting his third fight in four months, has moved up a category and will face Bryan barberena.

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Brazilians in action

The card in New Jersey will feature five Brazilians. Iuri Marajó makes an important duel at rooster against the promising and dangerous Jimmie rivera. Already Carlos Diego Ferreira, who is going through a difficult time in the UFC, takes on the also tough Olivier Aubin-Mercier. Ranked in the middleweight division, Rafael Sapo faces Kevin Casey. Wilson reis faces Dustin Ortiz in flyweight, and, finally, Felipe Olivieri, athlete from Nova União, makes his Octagon debut against Tony Martin.