Mauricio “Shogun” Rua has booked what could be the final fight of his legendary career.
The former champion light heavyweight is scheduled to take on Ihor Potieria during the UFC 283 card, which will be held in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) on Jan. 21.
Multiple people who were aware of the plans for the promotion confirmed that the information was available to MMA Fighting Wednesday. MMA Mania initially reported the matchup.
Recognized as one of the greatest 205-pound fighters in history, Rua stated prior to his last outing that he was planning on competing two more times before calling it a career. Rua lost to Ovince St-Preux by a split decision. He’s since been inactive.
It appears that the Brazilian fighter will compete in front of his home crowd at the Rio card.
Potieria will make his UFC debut after having joined the organization through The Contender Series. The Ukrainian born fighter was on a 15-fight undefeated streak before falling to Nicolae Negumereanu in his octagon debutin July.
When he returns, Potieria will seek to pick up his first UFC win while going up against an icon of the sport in Rua.
The UFC 283 event card has yet to be finalized, but it will include at least one title fight. Deiveson Figueiredo will face Brandon Moreno for the fourth time and flyweight gold will also be up for grabs.
Steven Marrocco was a contributor to this report
