Forrest versus Shogun in 2007 / Photo: Josh Hedges
The two have faced off before – in September 2007 at UFC 76. On the occasion, Mauricio Shogun, who was making his promotional debut, succumbed to a snug rear-naked choke performed by Forrest Griffin. After that, Forrest went on to become UFC champion by beating Quinton Jackson. Shogun too would go on to become light heavyweight champion.
Now, all signs point to the two facing off yet again, at the August 27 UFC Rio show.
The Shogun-vs.-Forrest rematch gained momentum in recent days, and GRACIEMAG.com has confirmed with sources close to the UFC that the fight should indeed happen.
While Griffin is coming off a win over Rich Franklin at UFC 126, Shogun lost his title to Jon Jones at UFC 128.
Keeping with the theme of revenge, a second settling of scores could take place at the HSBC Arena in Rio, as Anderson Silva will be looking for comeuppance against Yushin Okami – Okami holds a win over Silva, although by disqualification.
Stay tuned to GRACIEMAG.com!