Anthony Johnson will be looking to continue his upward climb through the light heavyweight rankings when he meets Antonio Rogerio Nogueira at UFC on Fox 12 on July 26.
UFC officials confirmed the fight Thursday to Fox Sports’ Mike Chiappetta:
Breaking: Anthony Johnson vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira set for UFC on FOX San Jose show http://t.co/jl3nNQliHv
— Mike Chiappetta MMA (@MikeChiappetta) May 8, 2014
Johnson, who was released from the UFC two years ago, has revitalized his career in the light heavyweight division. The former welterweight contender has bounced around in multiple weight classes, competing as high as heavyweight at one point.
Currently riding a seven-fight win streak, he shocked the world at UFC 172 by routing light heavyweight contender Phil Davis. A win over a legend like Nogueira would put him one step closer to a UFC title shot.
Nogueira may no longer be listed as a ranked light heavyweight, but his removal from the UFC’s official rankings has more to do with injuries than wins and losses.
Coming off back-to-back wins over Rashad Evans and Tito Ortiz, Nogueira has proved to be arguably the most injury-prone fighter in the UFC.
“The guy is always hurt. Every time you call him, he's hurt,” UFC President Dana White told MMAJunkie (h/t Brent Brookhouse of Bloody Elbow) during a media scrum when asked about Nogueira.
After such a brilliant showing against Evans, it would be disappointing if Nogueira had to pull out of another fight. This is a big opportunity for him to re-establish himself as a top contender with a win over a young and hungry fighter like Johnson.
This is an important fight in the light heavyweight division that could decide the next contender behind Daniel Cormier.
UFC on Fox 12 is scheduled to take place at the SAP Center in San Jose, California.
It has yet to be announced whether Johnson vs. Nogueira will serve as the headliner for the event.
Jordy McElroy is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report. He is also the MMA writer for Rocktagon.
