The classic Octagon should land in Rio de Janeiro next year. Photo: Josh Hedges.
After thirteen years, the UFC will make its return to Brazilian soil in 2011. According to GRACIEMAG.com sources, Ultimate Brazil will be held in November of next year, in Rio de Janeiro.
The venue, according to sources, will be the HSBC Arena, in Barra da Tijuca, where sporting events and concerts by bands like Green Day, Bob Dylan, and R.E.M. have performed in the past. The UFC crew, including Dana White, has already approved of the location, after visiting Rio some months ago.
UFC Brazil first took place in 1998, at Portuguesa gymnasium in São Paulo, with classic fights like Vitor Belfort’s win over Wanderlei Silva, and performances from Frank Shamrock, Ebenézer Braga, Pat Miletich, Pete Williams, Pedro Rizzo, and Tank Abbott.
What about you, reader, what would be your perfect main event to bring UFC Brazil to a close in 2011? Comment below and help White set up an unforgettable event, this time on Brazilian turf.
The HSBC Arena, likely venue for UFC in Rio. Photo: Publicity.