Anderson Silva will attempt to extend his record for most consecutive title defenses to 10 in a rematch against Chael Sonnen, who nearly upset the champion when they first faced off two years ago. That bout highlights the UFC 148 card.
There are a total of 11 fights on tap for Saturday. It’s one of the most complete cards of the year for UFC. With that in mind, here’s a look at all the key viewing information and a breakdown of the biggest bouts of the night.
Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev.
When: Saturday, July 7 at 10 p.m. ET (Main Card)
Watch: Facebook and FX (Preliminary Card) and Pay-Per-View (Main Card)
Live Stream: UFC.com provides multiple options
Fights to Watch
Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen
No fighter has been more dominant over the past handful of years than Silva. Not only has he defeated every challenger thrown his way, but he has often made it look easy, showing just how far ahead of the middleweight pack he has been.
Sonnen did give him a run for his money in the first matchup, though. He was able to make himself into the aggressor and kept Silva on his heels for much of the fight. But in the fifth round, he got caught in an armbar and was forced to tap out, ending his run at the title.
He gets another chance now, and he looked strong in a January victory over Michael Bisping. Although Silva is still the favorite to retain the belt, he will face another tough test from the American, who’s looking for his big break.
Forrest Griffin vs. Tito Ortiz
Even though both of these fighters have name recognition, they have been struggling as of late and would really benefit from a win on Saturday. Griffin has lost three of his last five fights, and Ortiz has lost five of his last six.
One of Griffin’s wins during that span did come against Ortiz. It was a split-decision victory back in late 2009, which helped fuel a rematch. The key for Griffin will be getting back to fighting at his pace, not accelerating to match his opponent.
As for Ortiz, he’s looking for any proof that he still has some great performances left in him. He was knocked out in each of his last two outings and just hasn’t looked like his old self. Now would be a perfect time to turn things around.
Cung Le vs. Patrick Cote
Le was unable to make the immediate statement he was hoping for in his first UFC fight, losing to Wanderlei Silva by knockout. The last thing he needs is to begin his UFC career on a two-match losing streak, so it’s a big night.
His opponent will have plenty of motivation. Cote returns to the promotion after four fights away and will be looking to show that he deserves to stay this time around. He was let go following three consecutive losses a couple years ago.
With so much on the line for both guys, this should be one of the most intense fights of the night. It will come down to which guy can better absorb some shots, because both are capable of landing some big ones and will be looking for the KO.
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