Highly touted UFC newcomer Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira  (0-0 UFC) is expected to make his octagon debut against a yet-to-be-named opponent at UFC 73 on July 7th.

Nogueira is expected to be one of the top contenders in the UFC for the heavyweight title, although he sits behind more UFC veterans Gabriel Gonzaga and Andrei Arlovski in the line for the title. “Big Nog” holds wins over notable mixed martial artists such as Mirko “Cro Cop“, Dan Henderson, Fabricio Werdum, and Jeremy Horn.

Widely regarded for his submission skills, Nogueira has had 12 of his 33 fights go to decision, winning 8 of them. Out of his 29 career MMA wins, 18 have come from submissions. He has won 5 of his last 6 bouts trading a win and loss with Josh Barnett most recently. Barnett won a split decision in September at a Pride event but “nog” avenged the loss several months later in December posting a unanimous decision win.

No opponent has been publicly rumored as an opponent but our sources indicate Brandon Vera is a likely possibility. UFC 73 is shaping up to be the summer blockbuster for the UFC with Sean Sherk and Anderson Silva making title defenses against Hermes Franca and Nate Marquardt respectively. Also, Tito Ortiz will face Rashad Evans at the July 7th event in Sacramento, California.

For complete information on the event check out our UFC 73 rumors.

Tags: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira