Chael Sonnen’s Next Opponent? Rashad Evans In The Co-Main Event of UFC 167
After his impressive victory over Mauricio “Shogun” Rua at UFC Fight Night 26 from Boston, Chael Sonnen was rumored to have several potential opponents for his next bout. While rumors included Vitor Belfort, Lyoto Machida, and of course Wanderlei Silva, it appears that Sonnen will have a much different opponent altogether.
And that opponent is former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Rashad Evans, whom Sonnen will be facing as the co-main event of the November 17th UFC 167 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “The American Gangster” revealed the juicy fight announcement on this afternoon’s UFC Fight Night 28 Pre-Show:
“The most well-dressed man, future Hall of Famer, former world champion Rashad Evans – he will be fighting on November 16 against the man with the biggest arms, the greatest charms and does all the harm. You simply know him as Chael P.”
The blockbuster matchup could possibly turn out to be one of the biggest all-out trash talk wars ever seen in the UFC, but Evans has seemed to be a rather quiet version of himself since his losing effort against UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones at UFC 145 in April 2012.
The No. 5-ranked Evans notched a close split decision win over Former Pride FC champion Dan Henderson at last June’s UFC 161, and looks to continue his ascend back up the 205 lb. ranks. Sonnen found himself in the Top-10 after his win over Shogun, and now sits at No. 9.
This bout has the potential to be a great matchup, and should serve as a great lead-in to the headlining UFC Welterweight title fight between champion Georges St. Pierre and challenger Johny Hendricks. What are your thoughts on Sonnen’s new fight?
Outer Photo: Winslow Townson for USA TODAY Sports
