In less than a week UFC light heavyweight Antônio Rogério “Minotouro” Nogueira (19-4) will step into the octagon to headline his first event with the promotion. On March 26 he’ll meet undefeated fighter Phil “Mr. Wonderful” Davis, who replaces an injured Tito Ortiz, for his fourth UFC bout.
“Minotouro” enters the fight on a loss, his first after seven fight win streak and two “Fight Night” bonuses. The Brazilian lost a unanimous decision against Ryan Bader last September at UFC 119. His opponent, Davis entered the UFC last year and is already 4-0 which includes a “Submission of the Night” bonus after submitting Tim Boetsch at UFC 123.
With the days counting down till this Saturday, focus has shifted from last weekends UFC 128 event to the upcoming UFN 24 show.
Speaking to Tatame.com, Muay Thai coach Sergio Cunha, who has helped ready other UFC fighters for their bouts, such as Rodrigo Nogueira, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, Wanderlei Silva, and others. Feels that despite Davis’ quick rise that Rogerio is the more “complete athlete” and will use his “aggressive Jiu-Jitsu” to earn a victory.
“It’ll be a good fight, he’ll be able to prove his value and play his own game. He’ll hit Davis on his foot, but I also believe he’ll use his aggressive Jiu-Jitu skills, really moving forwards, trying to submit the guy”, commented Cunha, who’s studied Davis’ game a lot. “He’s a complete athlete, he’s a high level Wrestling guy, he’s got a great conditioning too. He’s a tough opponent, but nowadays all fighters are tough. He’ll come with a good game plan set.”