Lyoto Machida Could Get Next UFC Middleweight Title Shot with Win Over Gegard Mousasi

If Lyoto Machida gets past Gegard Mousasi at UFC Fight Night 36 next week, he could be the new No. 1 contender for the UFC middleweight title.

UFC president Dana White said on Wednesday that a win on Feb. 15 in Brazil would make a strong statement about Machida earning a shot at the gold.

“Yes, if Machida wins, he could possibly be next in line for a title shot,” White told FOX Sports Live when asked of the fighter’s future.

If he is victorious next week, Machida’s opportunity would come after current middleweight champion Chris Weidman and No.1 contender Vitor Belfort settle their differences at UFC 173 on May 24.

A former UFC light heavyweight champion, Machida dropped down to 185 pounds in his last fight, taking on Mark Munoz at UFC Fight Night 30 last October. The fight ended with Machida landing a well-placed head kick, knocking out Munoz in the first round.

Machida and Mousasi are expected to headline next week’s card in Brazil, which takes place at the Arena Jaragua in Jaragua do Sul.