UFC 167 may have been the last time fight fans see Georges St. Pierre enter the Octagon. He walked out of his main event bout after getting his hand raised, though the outcome was controversial, and further controversy would follow after he expressed an intention to “go away for a while. However, for the other fighters that were able to get their hands raised, and who aren’t going anywhere, there are some interesting fights that could be made to further their respective careers. These suggested bouts could await the winners from UFC 167:
Tyron Woodley vs. Hector Lombard
When Tyron Woodley came to the UFC from Strikeforce, he was considered nothing more than a wrestler that holds opponents in control. However, he proved those characterizations wrong by knocking out two of his three opponents in highlight reel fashion. Placing him into a matchup against Hector Lombard would test whether Woodley is ready to face someone who has demonstrated similar knockout abilities.
Lombard and Woodley both have the ability to land takedowns and establish control, which could create an atmosphere where they are forced to stand and strike. With both individuals capable of landing heavy shots, this is the type of fight that would get fans and experts excited.
Lombard vs. Woodley would be a good opening bout for a UFC pay-per-view or co-main event for a Fox card.
Robbie Lawler’s career has taken a positive turn since bring brought back into the UFC. With three solid wins at welterweight, plus an exciting fighting style, many fans are calling for him to get a shot at the belt. However, Rick Story was once a surprise entrant in the 170-pound title “mix,” and is more suited to be the type of opponent that would further cement Lawler’s UFC title run.
Story has shown the abilities to beat many of the top competitors in the division, but he faltered when the lights were on him. Against Lawler he would have the opportunity to play the spoiler and put his name back within the top ten of the weight class.
Robbie Lawler vs. Rick Story could serve as a main card bout on a UFC pay-per-view event.
Ali Bagautinov vs. Chris Cariaso
Ali Bagautinov has picked a good time to push his name into contention in the flyweight division, as the weight class still needs to fill out, but continues to look for new contenders. Chris Cariaso has been a measuring stick of sorts for fighters looking to reach the top five within the weight class. Bagautinov vs. Cariaso would give Bagutinov the opportunity to demonstrate whether he is ready to receive consideration for a potential title shot in 2014. These two individuals should be placed together for a main card fight on an event shown on Fox Sports 1 or 2.
Rashad Evans vs. Gegard Mousasi
Rashad Evans is in the odd position of being one of the top three contenders at 205 pounds, but with his recent defeat to Jon Jones, he is far outside the title picture. Gegard Mousasi has been rumored to be changing weight classes, but if he doesn’t make the drop to middleweight, this would be a solid fight that brings together two former champions.
Mousasi has been a champion in both Strikeforce and DREAM at light heavyweights, but continues to fly under the radar. This is the type of bout that would offer Mousasi the opportunity to announce his arrival in the division with much more impact than his lone appearance in the Octagon. And with a win over Mousasi, Evans could add another name to his already stellar resume, and put himself in a better position to get a title shot in a division that is currently light on contenders.
This bout should occur on the UFC card in March where Jon Jones will defend his title against Glover Texiera.
Winning on a high profile card that features Georges St. Pierre, the UFC’s cash cow, can provide a strong boost to any fighter’s career. These athletes should expect prime placement on future cards as they continue to develop their title aspirations.
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UFC 167: St. Pierre vs. Hendricks took place on November 16, 2013 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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