UFC 146: Ranking Most Important Fights on Epic Card

Even though Alistair Overeem was removed from the UFC 146 card, it's still one of the most complete lineups in quite some time. There are two elite matchups and several other fights that should provide plenty of excitement.

Let's take a look at the three most important bouts that will take place tonight. It's important for UFC to keep putting on good shows as it continues to seek more mainstream fans to help the sport grow. Tonight's action should definitely help.

1. Junior dos Santos vs. Frank Mir

The main event will feature current UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos defending his title against former champion Frank Mir. Both guys have been on top of their game lately, which should make for quite the battle.

Dos Santos has just one loss in his career, and that came more than four years ago against Joaquim Ferreira. His extended winning streak allowed him to climb the ranks. When finally given a chance to win the title, he crushed Cain Velasquez to assert his dominance over the division.

He faces a tricky test against Mir, though. More than half of the veteran's wins have come by submission, so look for him to slow down the pace and force Dos Santos to adapt to his style. If he can do that, there will be an upset in the making.

2. Antonio Silva vs. Cain Velasquez

Cain Velasquez will be looking to rebound from his first career loss against UFC newcomer Antonio Silva, which should have a main-event feel to it. Both guys are title contenders and could boost their chances of getting a chance at the belt with a victory.

Velasquez quickly rose up the ranks by winning eight of his first nine fights by knockout, including a memorable performance against Brock Lesnar to become champion. He looked unprepared for Dos Santos, however, which makes a strong bounce-back showing crucial.

On the flip side, Silva will be looking to make an instant impact after arriving from Strikeforce. He suffered a disappointing loss to Daniel Cormier in his last fight before switching promotions, but that should serve as extra motivation as he looks to prove himself.

3. Stefan Struve vs. Lavar Johnson

While Roy Nelson's bout against Dave Herman has generated more hype, Lavar Johnson and Stefan Struve shouldn't be overlooked. Both guys are at different points in their careers, but have a lot on the line in a crowded heavyweight division.

Johnson has been extremely impressive in his last two outings, picking up the Knockout of the Night both times. He just fought Pat Barry three weeks ago to start building some momentum. The fight ended in the first round, so stamina shouldn't be an issue.

He'll face off against a fighter 10 years younger than him in Struve. The Dutch star hasn't made a major impact on UFC yet, but he does have two straight wins. A third would put him on the radar, especially since it would be against another fighter on a hot streak.