Looks like FOX is getting yet another title fight for network television with the announcement that Demetrious Johnson will defend his flyweight belt against John Dodson in January.
The news was confirmed by Ariel Helwani on UFC Tonight this evening. This will be the first title defense for Johnson, who won the inaugural flyweight tournament with decision wins over Ian McCall and Joseph Benavidez.
Dodson won the 14th season of The Ultimate Fighter as a bantamweight before cutting down to flyweight. Since the cut, he’s picked up two wins, including a stunning knockout victory over Jussier Formiga.
This will be the third title fight on network television.
The UFC made a huge splash last year on FOX with a heavyweight title fight between Cain Velasquez and Junior Dos Santos. The bout was a bit underwhelming, as Dos Santos starched Velasquez in 64 seconds to capture UFC gold.
The final FOX card of 2012 features a lightweight title fight in the main event as Benson Henderson looks to defend the belt against Nate Diaz. Both Henderson and Diaz are exciting fighters who will likely keep the crowd on their feet.
This is a great play by the UFC to feature the lighter weight belts on free television. They aren’t money makers on PPV but have the potential to draw fans in on network television. It’s a move that appeases their television partner yet also works to build up an often ignored weight class.
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