To Dana White, Sonnen gets a win against Shogun near the belt

Former heavyweight champion faces loudmouth at UFC Fight Night 26 on Saturday (17)



The recent defeat to Lyoto Machida, former No. 1 ranking in the heavyweight category, to Phil Davis may have turned the fight between Maurício Shogun and Chael Sonnen on Saturday (17) in a decisive challenge for the Brazilian. According to UFC president Dana White, even coming off a loss to Alexander Gustafsson, Shogun can approach Belt division if they beat the American.

"The win is a good deal. Chael Sonnen is still considered one of the best middleweights in the world. For Shogun, the victory over Chael Sonnen makes you one step closer to a title shot, too, "the leader said during a press conference given by teleconference.

Mauricio Shogun faces Chael Sonnen this Saturday (17), the main event of UFC Fight Night 26. The event takes place at TD Garden in Boston (USA).