Luke Rockhold vs. Lorenz Larkin Set for Strikeforce

Strikeforce Middleweight Champion Luke Rockhold has his next opponent scheduled, and it isn't Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza like most expected.

Instead, according to MMAweekly.com, Rockhold will fight Lorenz Larkin on a November 3 Strikeforce card. This will be an interesting standup battle, as both men are striking based fighters.

Larkin likely earned the title shot with a unanimous decision victory over Robbie Lawler in July at Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Kennedy.

Before that, Larkin was one of the hottest prospects in the light heavyweight division. That was before a hiccup against Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal, where he was grounded and pounded into the loss column.

After the fight, though, Lawal tested positive for a banned substance, effectively making the fight a no contest. Therefore, Larkin avoided his first ever loss.

Larkin has 13 career wins, with eight coming by knockout. With just one fight coming at middleweight, one has to believe his size will be an advantage in this fight.

The champion, Rockhold, has looked great since winning the title against Souza. The 10-1 American Kickboxing Academy product has defended his title twice over Keith Jardine and Tim Kennedy.

Rockhold has been very vocal since winning the title about fighting crossover fights against UFC talent. But, I think he has a legitimate threat in front of him in Larkin.

It appears this will be a co-main event to a heavyweight showdown between Daniel Cormier and Frank Mir. So far, this card is developing nicely.