Despite several hints to the contrary from UFC president Dana White following UFC 121, it appears the UFC is going to give Tito Ortiz another chance to break out of his four-year, four-fight losing streak. And they’re not going to make it easy on him either. As initially reported by Tatame last night, Tito will take on Antonio Rogerio Nogueira in March, possibly at UFC 128. Dana White confirmed the news earlier today in Germany.
White today confirmed that “The Huntington Beach Bad Boy” meets Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (19-4 MMA, 2-1 UFC) in March 2011, possibly at UFC 128.
UFC U.K. president Marshall Zelaznik on Thursday told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that a potential March event, UFC 128, could take place in the United Arab Emirates, possibly in Abu Dhabi, thought other cities also are under consideration.
White did not specify a date for Ortiz vs. Nogueira.
While I’m not aware of Dana saying otherwise, one has to imagine Tito will be fighting for his job when he steps in the cage with Lil’ Nog. That’s a really tough fight for him, but one he could pull off if he follows the Jason Brilz game plan. I wouldn’t bet on it, but you never know how people are going to react when they’re back’s against the wall.
On a side note, Tito may have made the cut, but it doesn’t look like Gilbert Yvel did. His profile was removed from the UFC website last week, and now word is coming in that he was in fact released. He joins Gabriel Gonzaga and Patrick Cote in the unemployment line following UFC 121.
Image via CombatLifestyle.com
