Rumor: Mauricio “Shogun” Rua Signs with UFC, May Fight at UFC 72
For all the heat the UFC has taken in recent weeks over UFC 72 one signing may silence nearly all critics of the event. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua’s team, Chute Boxe is reporting today on their website that he has indeed signed a contract with the UFC and may potentially be fighting in just weeks at UFC 72. Here’s the blurb about Rua from the site:
Mauricio “Shogun” Rua has signed a contract with the UFC and may participate in UFC 72.
Rua is widely regarded as one of the top light heavyweights in the world and is currently fighting with PRIDE. Notable wins in his career include victories over Antonio Rogerio Nogueira and Quinton “Rampage� Jackson. In his last fight Rua posted a knockout win over Alistair Overeem at PRIDE 33.
The 25-year-old, 16-2 MMA fighter would be a near instant contender for the UFC light heavyweight title if the rumors do indeed pan out and Rua joins the UFC in the near future. Prior rumors had surfaced of his joining the UFC although they ultimately never materialized.
Giving him a tune up fight at UFC 72 on June 16th may be ideal for the UFC who could then give him a potential shot at the title at UFC 75 or 76 later this year.
Could a UFC 71 announcement of his signing be in store? We’ll have to wait and see.
For more on UFC 72 check out our UFC rumors section.
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On a related side note from Chute Boxe USA, the organization is reporting that Evan Tanner will be fighting under the groups banner during his future UFC comeback. Several weeks ago Tanner announced he would be attempting a UFC comeback. Since the announcement he has sold his house. No date or opponent has been rumored for Tanner returning to the octagon.
Tags: Evan Tanner, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
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I’d love to see Shogun added to the card, but is that enough?
Thus far 72 seems to be the weakest offering in quite a while and is a great argument that all things UFC are not PPV. With no title on the line and an unexciting main event Dana is going to have to sweeten the pot with free windshield repairs or senior discounts.
I’m kinda hoping that Frankin gets injured (nothing serious) and the whole thing is cancelled and lumped in w/ 73.
I don’t think it’s enough to get most fans to buy it because they aren’t familiar with him but there are even a lot of MMA diehards that don’t want to buy this card. I think this might sway their minds, at least some of them.
The event has turned into a disaster more or less but I am really hoping Rua does indeed fight so that it eases the pain just a little.
[...] and bringing him under the Zuffa banner is yet another great acquisition following the signings of “Shogun” Rua, Antontio Rodrigo Nogueira, and Dan [...]