Less than 24 hours after losing their title challenger for middleweight champion Luke Rockhold at UFC 199, UFC found someone to fill in — someone that has been fighting his entire professional career to get a title opportunity.
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Michael Bisping, the sometimes controversial British star, got the nod Wednesday and will get his first UFC title shot on June 4th, facing Rockhold for the second time in a memorable career in less than three weeks time. Chris Weidman was supposed to face Rockhold in a rematch, but had to pull out with herniated discs in his back.
UFC president Dana White announced the news on ESPN, adding that Jacare Souza was their first option. However, Souza is looking at meniscus surgery after his recent quick victory over Vitor Belfort Saturday in Brazil. Fomer top contender Yoel Romero was also not in consideration as he is still on suspension after testing positive for a banned supplement.
The 37-year-old (28-7) has won three straight and is coming off the most notable win of his career in February, a decision victory over Anderson Silva. He faced Rockhold in November 2014 and lost via second round submission. Just a week ago, he was filming on the set of the new ‘XXX’ action movie, so he hasn’t been in the gym training for a fight. However, given the opportunity, it’s safe to assume he’ll be as ready as possible in a few weeks.
Given the other options, the fight is, ahem, best for business given the vitriol between the two and that Bisping knows how to sell a fight.