Although reports are early, it appears that UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman will defend his title against Vitor Belfort in the U.S.
Brett Okamoto of ESPN reports that Weidman will likely face Belfort for his title in Las Vegas in a pay-per-view main event later this year. This story cited UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, who said the matchup would likely go down in May or June.
This is big news, as Belfort’s recent fights have taken place in Brazil, where he obliterated Michael Bisping, Luke Rockhold and Dan Henderson. Fans have speculated that Belfort fights in Brazil largely because the country grants him the right to get a TRT exemption.
If this fight does take place in Las Vegas, Belfort may have trouble getting a TRT exemption from the Nevada State Athletic Commission. This is especially true because he has no pre-existing medical condition and is a past steroid user.
As for Weidman, he is coming off his second win against Anderson Silva last weekend. That fight ended in an unfortunate injury, as Silva broke his leg while throwing a kick that was checked by Weidman.
This matchup is long awaited, as Belfort has been next in line for the middleweight title due to his recent rampage. He is an all-new fighter, knocking out everybody left and right.
Weidman looks to be the future of the division, holding an undefeated record including the two big wins over Silva. Given Belfort and Weidman’s recent amazing runs, this title fight could be huge.
The UFC is used to having some of its biggest pay-per-views in Las Vegas, and this could be one of the biggest in 2014. It will be interesting to see what shake-ups happen going forward.
Stay tuned for more news on this event and matchup.
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