One-time title challenger Thales Leites (pictured) will make his return to the Octagon at UFC 164. Photo credit: UFC
The card for UFC 164 is taking shape and filling with Brazilian MMA stars.
Beasts of Jiu-Jitsu, Vinny Magalhaes and Thales Leites were confirmed for the event that will be held on Aug. 3, which features a title fight between Jose Aldo and Anthony Pettis in the main event.
Magalhaes is coming off a loss to Phil Davis at UFC 159, and in May began some teasing between himself and Anthony Perosh via Twitter. The Australian last fought in July 2012 and was knocked out by Ryan Jimmo in just seven seconds. Now, the light heavyweights meet in a duel in which both need to win to regain security in the division.
The UFC 164 also marks one of the most anticipated returns in the UFC Octagon with Leites. The Brazilian will face Tom Watson after four years away from the franchise. The information was confirmed by UOL on Thursday afternoon.
Leites, a former title challenger to Anderson Silva, spent time in other organizations with good results before the announcement of his UFC return.
4 UFC Rio (UFC 163)
HSBC Arena – Rio de Janeiro
August 3, 2013
Jose Aldo vs. Anthony Pettis
Demian Maia vs. Josh Koscheck
Sergio Moraes vs. Neil Magny
Vinny Magalhaes vs. Anthony Perosh
Thales Leites vs. Tom Watson