UFC welterweight stalwart, Mike Pierce, issued a challenge via Twitter last week to any Brazilian 170-pounder, claiming that it would be an easy fight for him. Blue-chip prospect, Erick Silva, was the first to respond and ask for a bout with Pierce in Brazil, but it appears now that submission specialist, Carlos Eduardo Rocha, will heed the call instead and face Pierce in June. Rocha confirmed the booking on his Facebook page:
Guys, I’m back June 8th against loudmouth Mike Pierce (considered the new Chael Sonnen). I count on your energy and voices to help me bring victory to Brazil.
There hasn’t been any event officially announced for June 8th, but it’s been widely reported to be UFC on FX 3, and the location of the card will be announced shortly. In any event, “Ta Danado” returns after an extended absence due to injury, with his last fight taking place all the way back in February of 2011, when he lost a close split decision to Jake Ellenberger. Many fans have been clamoring for news about the return of Ta Danado as his aggressive BJJ game has proven to be highly exciting, even against stiff competition.
Pierce will look to continue to build off a razor-thin split decision loss to Josh Koscheck last month, a bout that many fans and journalists scored for Pierce. Although it’s a “L” on his record, Pierce nonetheless gained momentum and proved that he can hang with the UFC’s elite welterweights. Now he’s faced with the always challenging task of cashing a check written by his mouth, and dealing with what seems to be an angry Rocha. Although Pierce is fortunate not to be competing on this summer’s Brazil card after the statements he made about Brazilian fighters, his opponent will nonetheless be very motivated.
Mike Pierce (13-5)
L Josh Koscheck (split decision) – UFC 143
W Paul Bradley (split decision) – UFC on Fox 1
L Johny Hendricks (split decision) – UFC 133
Carlos Eduardo “Ta Danado” Rocha (9-1)
L Jake Ellenberger (split decision) – UFC 126
W Kris McCray (submission – kneebar) – UFC 122
W Fatih Balchi (submission – arm triangle choke) – GMC 1
UFC on FX 3 coverage