Demetrious Johnson’s Next Opponent May Surprise You

Reigning UFC flyweight kingpin Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson has put a serious hurting on the 125-pound division since becoming the inaugural champion in 2012.

He has since defended his strap an ultra-impressive eight straight times, and has come away with five finishes in those eight victories. His most recent accomplishment was a breath taking one, as “Mighty Mouse” demolished former Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo in the first round of their bout at last month’s UFC 197 from Las Vegas, Nevada.

Some may argue that Johnson has already cleared out the division, an argument that has the UFC scrambling to create intriguing matchups for their flyweight title holder.

It was recently announced that the winner of the upcoming 24th season of The Ultimate Fighter will receive an immediate title shot and take on Johnson at the finale next December.

Somewhat surprising news then came out tonight (May 18, 2016) as well, indicating that the champion isn’t willing to sit around and wait until then.

UFC Tonight’s Megan Olivi reported that Johnson will next defend his title against No. 8-ranked Wilson Reis in the co-main event of July 30’s UFC 201 from Atlanta, Georgia.

Reis has won three of his last four bouts including victories over the likes of Joey Sanchez, Scott Jorgensen, and Dustin Ortiz. Most recently, he earned a decision over Ortiz last January.

UFC 201 will be headlined by a welterweight title clash, as reigning 170-pound champion Robbie Lawler defends his title against Tyron Woodley.