Fight fans got goosebumps when they heard a shootout between Brian Stann (Pictured) and Wanderlei Silva would headline the UFC’s return to Japan. However, most were surprised the middleweights were going to collide in a light heavyweight affair.
As far as Stann is concerned, it’s simply a onetime thing because there were no top tier 185-pounders currently available and he needed to go where the fight was.
According to Stann, Silva, who has been steadily approaching the end of his illustrious career for the past several years, didn’t want to go through the hell of shedding an additional 10 pounds at this stage of his life.
“I am not moving to LHW, just one fight, couldnt find a matchup at 185, everyone is matched up or hurt in top ten & Wand doesnt want to cut,” Stann tweeted early Thursday morning.
Prior to transitioning to the middleweight division, both fighters experienced tremendous success at light heavyweight – particularly Silva, whose torrid run in Japan’s Pride FC allowed him to achieve legendary status.
Stann is a former WEC 205-pound champ.
Silva and Stann headline “UFC on FUEL TV 8” on March 2nd. Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan hosts the festivities.
Original Story:
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December 13, 2012
