Heavy.com has confirmed with sources close to the UFC that a welterweight matchup between Renzo Gracie and Matt Hughes is in the works for UFC 109 in February.
Gracie, 42, last appeared in a February 2007 disqualification victory over Frank Shamrock. Rumors have circulated over the last month that the legendary Gracie family member has been in negotiations with the UFC. Both fighters have been approached about the fight, but bout agreements have not been signed.
Hughes has turned down bouts with top contenders Josh Koscheck and Mike Swick in recent months, citing the desire to only participate in "interesting" fights. He defeated Royce Gracie at UFC 60 in 2006.
Heavy.com can also confirm that reports of a bout between Demian Maia and Royce Gracie for the same card is nothing more than a rumor.
What it means: This bout is confirmation that Matt Hughes probably isn't interested in fighting anyone who can actually challenge him at this point in his career. He could have accepted bouts against Koscheck and Swick, two fights where a victory would have pushed him near title contention once again.
Instead of pushing himself, he takes a bout with the aging Gracie. It's a fight that Hughes should win, and I suppose it qualifies as an "interesting" fight for Hughes. But a victory in the match does nothing for his career.
It may not matter at this point.
13 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete