Diego Sanchez Next Fight: 5 Possible Opponents at Lightweight

UFC fan favorite Diego Sanchez took to Twitter Monday to tease his next fight.

"

MY NEXT FIGHT WILL BE AT LIGHTWEIGHT.

— Diego Sanchez UFC (@DiegoSanchezUFC) December 10, 2012"

For the past three years, Sanchez has shuttled between 155 pounds and 170 pounds; his last four engagements came at welterweight and yielded a 2-2 record. 

The outspoken and eccentric Sanchez has been fairly quiet since losing a thriller to Jake Ellenberger in February. He announced an intention to move back to lightweight in August but had said nothing until now about a new fight. Here are five possible opponents for "The Dream."

5. Thiago Tavares/Khabib Nurmagomedov Winner

These two youngsters square off in January at UFC on FX 7. Neither has faced a name as big as Diego Sanchez, and winning this fight would prove either one is ready to do so. 

4. Jacob Volkmann

Two of the strangest guys in the UFC would probably make for some interesting pre-fight hype. This could maybe even headline a Fuel card. Would you tune in to watch cameras follow these two around? I would.

3. Gleison Tibau/Evan Dunham Winner

These two veterans would each provide interesting tests for Sanchez. Tibau is a hulk of a lightweight and a noted jiu-jitsu threat. Dunham is well-rounded and dynamic.

The two lock up Feb. 2 at UFC 156. 

2. Yves Edwards

Now we're talking. These two extremely popular and exciting lightweights would undoubtedly put on a great show. Methinks some striking exchanges may occur in this one. 

1. Takanori Gomi

Forget about a Fuel card; this one could main-event just about anything.

Sanchez hits hard; Takanori Gomi hits harder. Sanchez may have an edge on the ground, though. Both men are veterans who leave it all out there, to employ a cliche. And with 57 wins between them, you're getting a mountain of experience, skill and name recognition.

If I ruled the world, I'd make this fight today.