It may be nearly two months away, but the excitement of the UFC’s return to Japan for Fuel TV’s eighth installment is already starting to build.
Not only is the international event free around the world, but the main event will feature two of the most explosive strikers in the middleweight division in Brian Stann and Wanderlei Silva.
The two power-punchers were previously set to battle back at UFC 130, but “The Axe Murderer” ultimately professed his reluctance to do so.
For Silva, one of the last remaining pioneers of MMA still competing, the fight will mark the first time he has competed in Japan following his farewell Pride bout in 2006. Japanese fans tend to love Silva’s gritty demeanor and aggressive ways, so consider him the fan favorite.
Meanwhile, Stann desperately needs a big knockout victory to reclaim any divisional title hopes he lost at the hands of Michael Bisping. The fight marks only his second overseas bout after fighting in Sweden in April.
Despite the difficulties of traveling and the familiarity with Asian culture, everything will go out the window when Silva and Stann touch gloves (presumably).
Here’s the initial head-to-toe breakdown.